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It’s easy to think of weight loss as a list of “shoulds” — eat this, not that; move more; stick to the plan. But research shows that happier people make healthier choices. When you prioritize joy, everything else feels a little easier.
“When he worked, he really worked. But when he played, he really PLAYED.”
— Dr. Seuss
Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash
Today’s Practice: Plan Something Fun
Happiness isn’t just a nice extra — it’s part of a healthy lifestyle. When you prioritize joy, you’re giving your body and mind a boost that supports every other choice you make.
Why Happiness Matters
Research shows that happier people:
Have lower stress hormones like cortisol, which reduces emotional eating.
Sleep better, which supports metabolism and appetite regulation.
Are more likely to stick with healthy habits like movement and balanced eating.
Experience more energy, which naturally leads to making better choices.
In short, joy strengthens your resilience. When you’re happier, it’s easier to recover from setbacks, bounce back after slip-ups, and keep going on your journey. (Get Happier Lose Weight: The Mind-Body Link That Matters)
Your Assignment Today
Plan something fun and follow through with it. Even a small activity can lift your spirits and give you more energy for the week ahead.
Some ideas to try:
Meet a friend for lunch or coffee.
Play a game of tennis or pickleball.
Take a yoga or dance class.
Explore a local park or trail.
Put on music you love and sing or dance at home.
>>> Try This Today: Schedule one “happy break” in your day — even 15 minutes counts. Notice how your mood shifts afterward.
A Recipe to Brighten Your Day
Food can bring joy too — especially when it feels light, fun, and refreshing. Try this sunny favorite: 3-Ingredient Pineapple Fluff.
Sweet, creamy, and simple — it’s proof that healthy eating can feel like a treat.
Photo: Getty Images For Unsplash+
Ongoing Strategies (Keep Building Your Habits)
Keep leaning on the healthy routines that are carrying you forward:
Pack a Snack: Staying prepared makes on-the-go choices easier. (See: Day 9: Pack a Snack to Stay on Track)
Soup Often: A simple way to fill up without extra points. Browse WW-friendly soups »
Take a Breather: A 5-minute pause refreshes your mood and energy.
Stay Hydrated: Water supports focus, digestion, and appetite. (Find 23 Ways to Drink More Water!)
Move for 10+: Short bursts of activity build consistency.
Track Food & Mood: Awareness helps you see patterns. (Read: Why Journaling Helps with Weight Loss.)
Something to Think About
What activities bring you the most joy right now?
How might happiness itself become part of your health plan?
Can you notice if your food choices shift when you’re happier and more relaxed?
What’s one fun thing you’ll plan this week? Share it in the comments — you might inspire someone else to try it too!
Want the Whole Program in One Place?
This Slow & Steady series is based on my 28-Day Smart Start for Weight Loss Challenge. If you’d like all 28 days bundled together (plus tips, recipes, and meal ideas), you can grab the full eBook here: Get the 28-Day Smart Start eBook!
Gentle Reminder
Happiness isn’t a distraction from health — it’s part of it.
Read: Why slow weight loss is the point »
Keep Going in the Challenge
Previous: Slow & Steady Weight Loss Day #26: Celebrate Your Success
Next: Day 28 (coming soon)
Browse all Healthy Weight Loss Articles & Tips »
Could You Use a Little Extra Support?
If you’d like encouragement as you find your own style, my 1:1 Slow & Steady Coaching offers gentle accountability and small, sustainable steps that fit your life.
>> Learn more about coaching here <<
The post Slow & Steady Weight Loss Challenge Day 27: Make Happiness a Priority appeared first on Simple Nourished Living.
