Playtime for Weight Loss

All work and no play - not only makes us dull and boring, it makes us super-stressed. And super-stressed adds on the pounds as fast as overeating.

I'm writing two books concurrently. Both have tight deadlines. Yes, it was my idea: I assured my agent and editors that I could do it. This is the truth: I dream all night long of recipes. I awaken having created new recipes IN MY SLEEP.

I needed a play break - communicating 8-10 hrs. daily with a computer screen expands one's mind and also one's behind. I started going to playtime. At playtime they give us balls, mats, barbells, hand weights, step platforms, bands of rubber tubing, Bosu balls. music, and an instructor. For one whole hour I don't need to think, in fact, I can't think - if I want to keep pace with the instructor and use the equipment effectively. I'm a klutz with equipment so for safety reasons alone I have to forget my deadlines and turn my attention to the barbell in hand.

In actuality, my playtime is Power Pump class. It's $6 at the nearby community fitness centers. They offer lots of classes daily so I can fit them into my writing schedule. Yesterday, I purchased a punch card that lowers my cost to $3. The results: handling the stress better, my upper arms look better in summer clothes, and I feel happier because I took time to play.

The lesson: the harder we work, the more playtime we need. High stress causes weight gain even if you don't overeat. Break up concentrated screen time with activity. Get out and say hello to the sun.

Both my books will be on the shelves next January. I'll tell you more about them specifically as time draws near. Have a fabulous June.

All the best, Lucy