Stress, inadequate sleep, and working too many hours all contribute in a big 'weigh' to weight gain.  Relaxation is essential to weight loss and is one of the most important elements for reaching weight loss goals in a safe, healthy manner.  While jumping rope and running track will help burn off pounds, there is a need to balance physical actions with mental actions.

The Weight Loss Effects of Rest & Relaxation on the Body

These are just a handful of reasons why it is vital for a dieter to balance activity with relaxation:

While many in the health industry feel that overeating is the biggest contributor to weight gain and obesity issues, we strongly feel that stress may indeed be the leading cause of weight gain and obesity.

• Studies indicate that individuals who get adequate rest tend to weigh less than those who don't.

• Relaxation allows the body to release stress, a chief contributor to weight gain.

• An overworked body leads to discontentment, thus triggering a potential situation ripe for weight gain.

• Studies indicate that allowing the body to rest a day in-between workouts yields superior weight loss benefits.

• Rushing through the day not only rushes physical activities and mental activities, but eating activities as well.

• Hobbies and personal interests keep the mind positively occupied, thus keeping appetite at bay.

• Individuals who tend to be on the run in their everyday lives tend to get nowhere when it comes to their good health.

• The fast track allows little time for activity, much less for rest and relaxation.

• A fast life style often prescribes to fast food which in turn may lead to significant weight gain and health issues.

In Summary & The Links: Let's face facts - the body requires rest and relaxation in order to put it into perfect balance.  Rest and relaxation are vital during the weight loss phase.  The links below provide tips for weight loss and stress relievers that are intended to lessen the stress for the dieter.   Stress & Weight Gain Three Relaxing Stress Relievers Stress, Constipation & Weight Gain Anxiety & Stress Overload Relaxing Tonics