You can try a variety of techniques and activities to help you diet, exercise and relax until you find a few things that you want to stick with. If you find yourself slipping back into old habits, try to restart your healthier lifestyle as soon as possible. Contact your physician about making changes to your diet, exercise and mental health routines.
Count and Cut Calories
Less calories equals more weight loss. By keeping track of how many calories you eat each day, then cutting some out, you can lose 1 to 2 pounds per week, on average. The American Council on Exercise recommends cutting your calorie intake by 10 percent to 15 percent. Simple calories you can cut include nondiet sodas, an unhealthy snack or an alcoholic beverage.
Switching Foods
Try switching to healthier versions of your favorite foods to lower your calorie consumption. Baked chips instead of fried, tea instead of sodas and frozen yogurt instead of ice cream are simple substitutions that can keep you from feeling deprived. You can also make simple adjustments to your diet, such as having half a sandwich instead of a full one, then adding a handful of vegetables, salad or fruit.
Walking
The Cleveland Clinic lists walking as one of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise. Try walking briskly for 30 minutes or somewhat briskly for 60 minutes, three to seven days a week. Use comfortable, durable shoes and try walking with a friend for company and motivation.
Dancing
Try a dance-inspired class at your local gym or dance studio, or make a mix of your favorite songs so that you can dance at home. As long as you keep moving, you can get the same benefits that other cardio workouts provide. The American Council on Exercise says that dancing can also give you other health and relaxation benefits, such as improving mood, increasing energy and reducing stress.
Yoga
Yoga is popular both as a workout to increase strength, balance and flexibility, and as a way to relax your body and mind. To use yoga to burn calories and exercise, try ashtanga, power or vinyasa style classes. To reap the relaxing benefits of yoga, try gentle, restorative or Viniyoga style classes. Yoga classes often include breathing and meditation, which also help you to feel more relaxed.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is another way to keep your body active, while offering relaxation at the same time. Tai Chi is a low-impact activity incorporating flowing, slow-paced movements, which can help you condition your body and reduce stress.
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