About the Program
The LIFELINE Healthy Weight program consists of a 5 session tele-class “Lunch & Learn” series of 30 minutes each on five consecutive Tuesday’s. The program has been developed for those who are ready to make the necessary lifestyle changes that support weight loss and long-term weight maintenance regardless of the number of pounds overweight or related health concerns. Participants will learn sound research-based strategies to help them enjoy eating without overeating, exercise regularly, and improve their ability to avoid the emotional triggers that often lead to over eating.
After the first session, each participant will have the opportunity to partner with a LIFELINE Coach to help develop a personalized plan for success and provide on-going motivation and support. The coaching component of the program is six sessions. HealthQuest sponsors and pays for this program. There is no cost to the participant or agency except any long distance charges to connect with the tele-class or coach.
The LIFELINE Healthy Weight Program follows the clinical weight management guidelines set forth by the National Dietetic Association, National Institute of Mental Health, and the National Diabetes Association.
During the program, participants will learn:
The five-week program consists of five 30 minute "Lunch and Learn" tele-classes. The program is offered quarterly and will accept 100 participants. Participants will be expected to complete homework assignments and other activities between sessions. Below is the program schedule.
Session One : Introduction and EAT for Hunger
The first session will help participants assess their physical, psychological, spiritual well-being, and readiness for lifestyle changes necessary for maintaining healthy weight. Participants will set doable goals for the remainder of the program. Discussions will begin on the first Healthy Weight strategy, EAT for Hunger, to re-train overeating habits to eat only when hungry and stop using food as a means of comfort, reward, and celebration.
Session Two : EAT for Hunger and Q&As
The focus of this session centers on the role and function of food in one's life. Food as a means of comfort, reward, and celebration is discussed further. Information is aimed at helping increase awareness about the many meanings that food has in our lives.
Session Three : Exercise for LIFE and Q&As
Physical activity can take on many forms beyond "working out." Participants will develop a personal physical activity and exercise plan that will help them balance emotions, esteem, and caloric intake...all necessary for long term success.
Session Four : ESTEEM for Self and Q&As
Connections among healthy weight practices, self-esteem, outlook on life, and personal relationships are often ignored. Without delving into religion, spirituality and long-term healthy weight are discussed.
Session Five : Eating, Exercise, & Esteem Life Plans and Q&As
Life Plans are personally tailored plans for a life time of healthy eating, exercise and self-esteem. Participants will put finishing touches on their Life Plans and discuss related healthy self-talk to maintain healthy weight.
Meet Your Tele-class Instructor
Sue Popkess-Vawter, PhD, RN is a lifestyle coach who assists individuals analyze and adjust lifestyle habits to reach a healthy weight that matches their daily schedules and personal choices. Her three pronged individualized approach is different from most professional and commercial weight loss programs. Instead of dieting and excess weighing, Dr. Popkess-Vawter recommends eating nutritious food to satisfy hunger. She helps individuals discover new ways of getting regular exercise to fit a hectic schedule. And also very important, she helps individuals conquer the emotional triggers that set them for failure.
Dr. Popkess-Vawter is a Professor in the University Of Kansas School Of Nursing. Since 1977 she has conducted research studies and counseled individuals in making long-term lifestyle changes that lead to lasting weight loss. She has completed post-doctoral training in psychology and counseling, and is an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.
How To Register
Check with your supervisor for permission to attend this program. You may call in to the class from any phone; however, a corded phone works best. The participant or participant's agency is responsible for any long distance charges. To save costs, discuss sharing the call with a group of employees on a conference call. For questions call 816-753-8283.
To register for the LIFELINE Healthy Weight Program click here