TRAIN YOUR MIND TO RESIST TEMPTATION AND CRAVINGS
“THE RESISTANCE MUSCLE”
Temptations are cleverly located all around us. The sweet aisle in the supermarket, the cakes as you walk into the supermarket, ads on TV and radio, the midmorning treats in the office and the list goes on. The good news is though, we are more often than not successful in resisting those temptations and cravings.
BUT there are times where we cannot resist and give in to temptations and cravings. So, what is going on at those times when you keep going to the fridge at night or give in to the craving of chocolate? Quite simply put, your body is anticipating a sense of physical satisfaction and you are trying to resist that urge to throw the best-laid plans out of the window.
One of the ways to overcome giving in to your cravings and triggers is to strengthen your mind – train the RESISTANCE MUSCLE. By training your brain you will create new neuropathways in your brain. Every time you resist a temptation or craving, you are strengthening your RESISTANCE MUSCLE. Convince yourself that a brief reward of giving in to the temptation is not as satisfying as reaching your weight loss and fitness goals. Believe in yourself and tell yourself that your mind is strong enough to resist.
Create your “Craving & Temptation Plan” and write it on an index card. This is done by writing down situations where you find it difficult to stay on your healthy eating plan. Then think about alternative activities you can do in those situations. Read the index cards daily.
For example, if muffins/donuts are brought into your office for break time and you find it hard to resist, think about what else you could do at that time. Maybe go for a 10-minute walk or do a task that takes you out of the office.
Making a “Craving & Temptation Plan” will help you stay on track and build that resistance muscle.
