Thursday, June 5, 2014

Guide To Choosing Weight Loss Retreats For Adults

By Lila Bryant


Losing weight is a task that can be more challenging for some people than others. There are those who can shed extra pounds by dieting and increasing their physical activity level, while others need a bit of extra help along the way in terms of motivation and support, it is this latter group that can benefit most from weight loss retreats for adults. These getaways equip participants with educational and inspirational tools needed for losing weight and are set in a relaxing environment.

Not every retreat provides participants with long term results however, some merely consist of an intensive fitness and strict diet plan for the duration of the retreat, however it does not give them the emotional encouragement and educational tools needed to produce lasting success. The mark of a quality retreat is one that is capable of giving attendees what they need to keep the weight off in the long run.

There must not be an over-emphasis of fitness in the program, since this is only one element in successful weight loss. Instead the main focus should be on personal growth and freedom from past modes of thinking which have lead to overeating and obesity. Participants should be equipped with a new awareness and knowledge that will continue to help them win this battle.

The particular setting of the retreat is another thing to consider. The atmosphere should be one that is notably different from one's usual environment, since this fact can help inspire change instead of nurturing old habits. Generally a more natural backdrop, for instance a peaceful countryside, is ideal, where the emphasis is on outdoor activity and living a healthy lifestyle, and there are not tempting places such as fast food restaurants all around.

While the staff need to be qualified and have a solid background in diet and fitness, how they personally relate to participants is just as important if not more so. They must have a genuine interest in helping each person successfully acquire the tools he or she needs to make permanent changes that will lead to shedding pounds, this should be done constructively using positive reinforcement and never by belittling or shaming.

There also needs to be a holistic approach to weight reduction, which means that the issue is addressed in terms of the body, mind, and spirit. When this approach is implemented, the process becomes a "journey" for each participant, and one that will hopefully bring about changes that last a lifetime. The focus should be on personal development rather than physical results alone.

A retreat can be seen as a learning experience and it must also acknowledge that people have different learning styles and provide a choice of various motivational and educational tools to appeal to these different preferences. These can be counseling, seminars, behavior modification, amongst others, and all participants should be given follow-up counseling after the retreat as well.

People who wish to lose those stubborn extra pounds and are considering going to retreat, should be sure to do some research before deciding on a particular one as some offer more than others. Looking up reviews by people who have attended any retreat being considered is a good way to know if it makes the grade and will provide long-term success for those who attend it.




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