Healthy self-esteem and the ability to always look on the bright side of situations have long been identified as keys to success, fulfillment and personal development. Now, researchers at the Technical University of Lisbon and Bangor University have determined that it may also help people achieve their weight loss goals.
In a study, researchers revealed that individuals who were taught about loving themselves, the drawbacks and reasons behind emotional eating and how to break down personal barriers to weight loss were significantly more likely to reach their goals, when compared to a group that was simply given health and nutrition advice.
"Our results showed a strong correlation between improvements in body image, especially in reducing anxiety about other peoples' opinions, and positive changes in eating behavior," said co-author Pedro Teixeira. "From this we believe that learning to relate to your body in healthier ways is an important aspect of maintaining weight loss and should be addressed in every weight control program."
In fact, women who were taught to love and accept themselves lost an average of 7 percent of their starting weight, compared to an average 2 percent weight loss experienced by the control group.
A healthy body is important in attaining personal development goals, since poor physical health has been shown to adversely affect the mind, body and spirit.
Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes that embracing positivity and weeding out negativity in one's life is key in leading a fulfilled existence. Those who are looking to better themselves must not forget any aspect of their being, since all must be in harmony in order to move forward.
