One of the things that can cause us to hold on to weight is the continuous release of stress hormones. It is therefore important for all of us to de-stress. Exercise can help. It releases endorphins that can improve our sense of well being and to lose weight by improving our level of fitness! Here are some more suggestions:

1. There is a simple, cheap way to reduce stress. It can be done anywhere at any time and requires little to no equipment. The stress reducer I am referring to is meditation. Some of you fellow boomers learned transcendental meditation in the seventies. If you have never done it, there are great beginner CD’s that can give you a short guided meditation to get you started.
2. There are many pleasant ways to reduce stress. Massage is one of these ways. Many of us feel guilty having a massage, but no need. Regular massages can reduce your stress hormone levels. By reducing your stress hormones, massage can actually help you to lose weight. Try it, you’ll like it!
3. Guided imagery is another great way to reduce stress and thus help us to lose weight or keep us from gaining weight. It will relax you and can help you lose weight.
4. Find an exercise that you like that can also relieve stress. Yoga, Tai Chi, and Qi Gong are just a few that you could check out. If you have pain in your knees aqua tai chi is a great choice and may be available in pools near you.