Releasing the Weight

Language is powerful. How we talk about ourselves, to ourselves, matters. Thoughts and words have an incredible effect on our bodies, our actions and our behaviors. For that reason, I want to share a concept that might resonate with you and allow you to open your arms and surrender to this wonderful and beautiful, but also scary and terrifying, world of weight loss. 

“Weight loss” has a negative connotation if you think about it. Where else do we use the word “loss”? You lose your keys, the remote, or your wallet. You grieve the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job. It denotes an awful situation beyond your control. Why are we using this word to support a positive, intentional change? 

Releasing the weight is a much better expression in my opinion. Why? Because it implies personal choice. You’ve decided that you no longer want to hold on to the excess weight you have on your body. Instead of saying, “I need to lose weight,” try saying, “I have chosen to release the weight.” Can you feel the difference in your mindset? In your body? 

With the second phrase, you’re releasing something that no longer serves you. You’re letting go of the burden that comes with being overweight: the physical discomfort, as well as the shame, stress and emotion attached to it. The word release feels refreshing and freeing. You let go of the past, so you can enter a new phase, unburdened of old patterns and baggage.