Enlisting Family Support

Let’s make one thing clear: family is first. Your family plays an important role in your lifestyle change process. Unfortunately, they may not want you to disrupt their status quo; they may prefer that their responsibilities, routines and "you" all remain the same. Or they may want to support you, but may be unsure exactly how to help.

By anticipating specific comments and reactions before they happen, you can prepare your family for the changes you're making that may also affect them. Tell them what specific things they can do to show their support and use the following guidelines to create an environment that is conducive to change:

Introducing low-fat foods:

The internet is filled with menus and recipes that are so similar to the “regular” foods most families eat. As such, you can introduce low-fat foods that your family may never even suspect as “good for you.” However, if they insist on eating "the old way," you still have two choices: keep experimenting until you have a new collection of low-fat family favorites or continue cooking the "old" recipes using low-fat cooking techniques.

Introducing exercise:

If your spouse complains that exercise keeps you away from the family, explain that exercise gives you more energy and improves the quality of your time with the family. Invite your family to join you next time or plan an active family outing together.

Above all, take any protest you receive in stride. If you and your family members have been sedentary for years, it would stand to reason that they might not suddenly decide to become active simply because you have.

As always – Live Your Life Well,

John Aaron Villarreal
johnaaron-massage.com

Facebook / Twitter

The content and information on this site is not intended to diagnose,

cure, treat or prevent disease. Please consult your physician

prior to starting any exercise or diet program.

Comments

What To Do When You’re Chronically Stressed

Of all the modern-day ailments that seem to affect us, none is more pervasive than stress. Everywhere you turn, there are factors lurking to redirect you from your peaceful pursuit of happiness and lock you in the clutches of “stress.” What exactly is stress—and what more insidious effects does it cause? The dictionary defines stress as “great pressure or force; strain.” In today’s world, we think of stress as the result of too much pressure laid upon us by life, causing mental worry or anguish. This, in turn, manifests itself in tight neck and shoulders, headaches, nervous stomach, etc. But these physical and mental conditions are really only the beginning. Studies show that stressful situations can develop into more threatening health conditions. For instance: A sudden or unexpected stressor can activate your adrenal glands, which sends adrenaline and other hormones into your bloodstream. This brings about an increase in your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood f

Simple Steps to Spring Forward Toward Fitness

Daylight savings time is a sure reminder that spring is just around the corner and there WILL eventually be an end to the winter weather. And while much of the country still dealing with bitter cold, here in Houston, we’re definitely ready for the warmer days. In fact, this is the time of year when you’ll find many of us increasing our outdoor activities and all too often push ourselves a little too hard. Unfortunately, what can result is often a few days of painful recovery time. So, I've got a short list of suggestions to consider as you pursue your favorite warm-weather pastimes this season: First, increase your activity level gradually — Pay attention to your body’s signals so you can avoid serious injury and don’t have to pay the painful price of overindulgence. Start slowly and do a little more each day and you’ll be up to speed in no time. Warm up — Plunging into activity before you get your body warmed and ready is inviting potential trouble. Avoid possible sprains,

The Benefits of Regular Massage Sessions

Once people discover the many joys and benefits of massage, a common question arises—“How often should I schedule my massage sessions?” Of course, there is no set answer, but studies indicate that massage at regular intervals is most beneficial to your overall health. In a Newsweek article entitled “The Magic of Touch,” the advantages of frequent massage are considered. The following excerpts help to answer the question, “How often?” “A weekly massage may seem an indulgence, but new research suggests it can have major health benefits... “Since instituting a program of massage, job-specific exercises and ergonomics in 1990, the Virginia-based company [Wampler Foods] has cut repetitive-stress injuries by 75 percent... “From assembly lines to corporate headquarters, Americans are discovering the magic of massage. At Boeing and Reebok, headaches, back strain and fatigue have all fallen since the companies started bringing in massage therapists... Doctors have started prescrib

John Aaron Wellness

Search This Blog