I am thrilled to be able to share the recent article “10 Things You Can Do Right Now – To Ease Concerns About Your Weight and Improve Your Health” by a leader in the Health @ Every Size field, Jon Robison, PhD, MS.  Dr. Robison has been a passionate supporter of a health-centered approach to helping those who are concerned about their weight and health.

I was introduced to Dr. Robison’s work at the National Wellness Conference in 2005.  He challenged me to examine my biases regarding weight and health and to read the research with a more critical eye.  Because of his leadership, I was inspired to develop a Health @ Every Size class in my community for those who struggle with weight and eating-related concerns.
The intended audience for this article is those who have not yet discovered the Health @ Every Size philosophy – it is perfect to share with friends and family who may still be steeped in the traditional “thin = health” paradigm. 

Enjoy Dr. Robison’s recommendations in this first of two blog series:

#1 – Save your Time & Money

Research clearly demonstrates that focusing on weight loss is unlikely to lead to permanent weight loss – and usually leads to weight cycling and weight gain.  Don’t spend your time and precious energy in pursuit of weight loss.

#2 – Just Say “No”

Do not use BMI or your weight as an indicator of health.

#3 – Ask for Answers

If you have a health condition and your health care provider recommends weight loss, ask if there are any alternatives.  How would s/he treat a thin person with the same condition?

#4 - Use Your Imagination

If you are worried about future health risks and want to make some lifestyle changes - what could you do (and keep doing) that could improve your health?  Develop and implement your plan.  Healthy behaviors, not weight loss, are the key to health!

For many this reinforces what they already know, but for others, these ideas may be a new way of thinking.  I will return to this article next week for the conclusion.  Until then, I would love to hear your reactions to Dr. Robison’s work and your experiences helping others see the wisdom of Health at Every Size.

To read the article in its entirety, check out the link to the Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA).  Although they commissioned the article, Dr. Robison warns that WELCOA does not advocate Health @ Every Size.  We will continue to work to open their eyes to the harm of traditional weight-centered approach.

Did you introduce someone unfamiliar with these ideas to this article? Tell me about it. How did it go? How did that person react?

Sara Armstrong is the owner of Zoi Wellness Consulting. In addition to wellness coaching, Sara specializes in health education seminars, diabetes prevention and management, Health for EVERY Body, and worksite wellness design. You can email Sara for a free wellness consultation at sara@zoiconsulting.com.