Weight loss is a multifaceted journey that extends beyond mere dieting and exercise. Aditi Shah, a Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, and RDN, advocates for an integrative approach to nutrition, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root cause of illness and disease to achieve ultimate wellness. Her practice, Nourish By Aditi, focuses on empowering individuals to reach their health goals through non-diet, weight-inclusive consulting and lifestyle practices.
Understanding Aditi Shah's Philosophy
Aditi Shah's approach is rooted in several core principles:
- Integrative Nutrition: This involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes of health issues, rather than simply treating the symptoms.
- Non-Diet Framework: Shah avoids restrictive diets, instead promoting a balanced and sustainable approach to eating.
- Weight-Inclusive Model: This approach focuses on health and well-being, regardless of an individual's weight.
- Client-Centered Care: Recognizing that there is no "one size fits all" solution, Shah tailors her guidance to meet the unique needs of each client.
The Importance of Discipline and Consistency
Aditi Shah emphasizes the importance of discipline and consistency over fleeting motivation. "We must let go of the idea that we need motivation to act," she states. "Motivation does not always precede action. In fact, sometimes it is action that inspires motivation." She likens motivation to a "bad partner" and champions discipline and consistency as the "true heroes of the love story," describing them as acts of self-love.
Real, Whole Foods and Varied Training
When asked about her personal diet and workout routine, Aditi Shah explains, "I do a mix of different training exercises and try to eat real, whole foods as much as possible." She acknowledges that individual responses to food and exercise vary due to genetic factors, routines, stress levels, and community influences. She also cautions against the "more is better" mentality, reminding us that exercise is a stressor on the body and that adequate hydration, fuel, rest, and recovery are essential for achieving results.
Pilates as a Beginner-Friendly Workout
Aditi Shah is also a yoga instructor at Peloton studio in New York City. She also leads live-stream classes that have the potential to reach over 500,000 subscribers. Shah highlights Pilates as an accessible and beneficial form of exercise for beginners. Pilates, originally a rehabilitative modality, focuses on strengthening techniques designed to complement rehabilitative work. It's rooted in six principles: breath, concentration, centering, control, precision, and flow.
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Pilates challenges people’s preconceived notions of what constitutes a “good” workout. “Sometimes we think about fitness as doing things harder and faster,” she says. “Pilates is a great example that something might look simple and may not move fast, but that does not make it easy.”
Benefits of Pilates for Beginners
- Adaptability: Pilates can be modified to suit different body types and fitness levels.
- Accessibility: Mat Pilates requires minimal equipment and can be done virtually anywhere.
- Core Strength and Alignment: Pilates emphasizes deep core strength and proper alignment, improving posture and performance in other activities.
- Mind-Body Connection: The focus on breath, precision, and concentration fosters a stronger mind-body connection, enhancing athletic performance and recovery.
Getting Started with Pilates
According to Aditi, as long as you have a workout mat (or at least a clean, comfortable section of your carpet), you can perform Pilates. While certain props can take your Pilates practice to the next level, you don’t necessarily need much to get started. Some other optional props include grip socks (for even more stability and anti-slippage), yoga blocks (to add additional support or challenge), or a Pilates ball (a small sphere that can go between the legs or under the back to activate certain muscles).
For beginners, Aditi Shah recommends starting with simple, equipment-free mat classes. Peloton offers beginner-level Pilates classes that can be a great starting point.
Key Tips for Pilates Beginners
- Focus on How Your Body Feels: Pay attention to the sensations in your body rather than striving for a particular aesthetic.
- Modify the Moves as Needed: Adjust the exercises to accommodate your current fitness level and any limitations.
- Remain Focused on Your Breath: Utilize deep, intentional breathing throughout the workout.
Progressing in Pilates
Consistency is key to building strength and confidence in Pilates. As you become more comfortable, consider exploring intermediate classes to further challenge yourself.
Aditi Shah's Morning Routine
Aditi Shah's commitment to health and wellness extends to her morning routine. She wakes up early and begins her day with gratitude and mindfulness, followed by essential hygiene and skincare practices. She prioritizes hydration by drinking a large Mason jar of water and takes a sublingual NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) tablet, reflecting her interest in functional health and evidence-based approaches to well-being. While she enjoys coffee, she is mindful of its impact on her energy and anxiety levels. She dedicates time to purposeful presence and mindfulness, often spending time on her balcony soaking up sunshine before checking her schedule and preparing for work.
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Additional Considerations for Weight Loss and Wellness
Beyond the specific advice offered by Aditi Shah, there are several other factors to consider when pursuing weight loss and overall wellness:
- Personalized Nutrition Counseling: Seeking guidance from a registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide tailored recommendations based on your individual needs and goals.
- Mindful Eating: Paying attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues can help you develop a healthier relationship with food.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can hinder weight loss efforts. Incorporating stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can be beneficial.
- Adequate Sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for regulating hormones that control appetite and metabolism.
- Community Support: Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family, or a wellness community can provide encouragement and accountability.
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