There are many dangers of going on a diet. Weight loss programs can often lead to eating disorders and before you know it, you’re entangled in anorexia, bulimia or binge eating.
When we put ourselves on a diet, we are committing to the same thing everyday: planning for foods that we're allowed and not allowed to eat and exercise that must be done in order to feel good about ourselves. Eating a healthy diet is much different than being on one of the many weight loss programs.
What I found when I used to go on a diet was that, along with having all of my meals pre-arranged each day, the rest of my daily activities also became rigid. I began living a habitual life of predictability because I didn't want sporadic decisions to ruin my plan.
What I missed out on was the freedom of living in the moment and the liberation of making decisions as the day progressed. It started to feel like I was just biding time until I could get to that next meal, counting down the hours before I could eat again. It was a woman-made prison with unyielding bars manufactured by me.
Going on a weight loss program can also lead to eating disorders if taken too seriously. People who develop anorexia, bulimia or binge eating often admit to starting on a diet.
My challenge to you is to do one thing today that breaks out of your routine. Try something new and let yourself freely experience it. Whether it's food and diet-related or something altogether different, go for it. And have fun!
Lori Henry - A travel writer, Lori flits between exploring the world with incessant curiosity and huddling over her laptop writing.
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