How to lose 5 pounds

I have always had to battle weight and the always hungry feeling every day.. But in the past year or two I decided I wanted to feel better -- mentally and physically. This is what I did to help me go down one dress size and to keep the weight off.

1. When I feel hungry I take a deep breath and tell myself to relax. A warmer helps relax tight muscles and can help make me feel better for awhile.

2. I try to find something to do that I know will keep me so preoccupied that it will help me forget about feeling hungry until the next meal time.

3. Reduce meal portions.

4. I joined an exercise class. Having other people to exercise with is fun and a help.

5. I try to snack on healthy foods - fruit, veggies, small amounts of nuts and cheese, and high fiber items like popcorn.

6. I never ever think of dieting -- it would cause me to eat more! Changing lifestyle and setting reasonable goals is important.

I feel pretty good that I was able to achieve my goal. Now the goal is to go down one more dress size over the next year and not be miserable doing it.

Above all, it is important to have fun and to be able to enjoy all foods in moderation. Find a friend who has similar goals and offer each other gentle reminders to take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy what is around you without eating.

Maine Warmers offers microwave heating pads and ice packs to relax tight muscles. They make great get-well gifts for people recovering from surgery or who are temporarily inactive due to illness. Their Cozy Bears and Moose are great for hunters who come in from a day outside with cold hands and feet!