Develop stress management skills before you need them.
Nothing derails a healthy lifestyle pattern like a major life stressor. The body’s reaction to stress sets you up for overeating and fat storage. Keep in mind that stress isn’t the event or situation; rather it’s your reaction to that event or situation. You can learn to control your body’s reaction, but you need to put skills in place ahead of time. If you wait until the stressor(s) hits, your best intentions will likely be overwhelmed. If you have a tendency to eat in response to stress, this is a must, because life happens and stress will come. Meditation, guided relaxation, regular exercise, good sleep habits, positive thinking, and healthy escapes can all be positive stress management skills to develop.
