Weight Problems

Food establishes the relationship between people and their environment and the emotional side of eating, reinforced habits and body image distortions contribute to the weight problems prevalent in western culture. The evolution of the societal norms perpetrated by the influence of the mass media has contributed to the health problems people suffer today.

Research states that excess weight, especially obesity, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some musculoskeletal conditions and some form of cancers. In addition, being overweight can hamper the ability to control and manage debilitating chronic conditions like depression. Adults who have been diagnosed with depression are more likely to be overweight. As excess weight increases, so does the risk of developing serious condition such as depression and anxiety.

Weight loss, yoyo dieting, weight gain and emotional eating are all stations on an emotional rollercoaster that has a major effect on people, their body image and their health – it is challenging for some people to stop or even slow the mechanism on their own. People who attempt to lose weight usually have a feeling of shame, fear and lack of willpower. The mind is in a constant battle between the intention to lose weight and a failed diet. The good news is, no matter how profound a weight problem, change can occur.

In addition to a diet prescribed by a health professional, an exercise regime is the effective option to lose weight and more beneficial than calorie restriction alone. Exercise is known to contribute to a sense of confidence and well-being, thus lowering the risk of anxiety and depression. Carrying around too much weight can be emotionally stressful so I would recommend that people perform aerobic exercise combined with body and mind training such as Pilates.

By incorporating Pilates in your daily routine, you can increase how many calories you burn per day. As long as you are consistent over time with your weekly exercise training sessions, you will automatically increase your calorie expenditure and will lose weight.

Regular exercise routines can improve metabolism, encouraging the body to burn extra calories. High-intensity interval training is also a great and efficient work-out for people who are fit enough. I have been working as a fitness trainer for nearly 30 years and my recommendation is to start slow and progress the intensity to avoid the risk of injury.

An aerobic training strengthens cardiovascular system by increasing the heart rate and breathing. These exercises use large muscle groups to perform rhythmic actions for a sustained period of time. Typically, sessions should last more than 15 minutes to start with and then progressively increase to an hour. You need to maintain your heart rate between 60 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate and at least 3 to 4 sessions per week.

In my Counselling practice and Pilates studio in Bondi Junction, I will help you to discover hidden strengths deep within your mind to develop self-awareness and change your eating habits. The treatment can take a few sessions so please call Plaisance Counselling or Bondi Junction Pilates for your appointment and advice if needed.