Before you reach for food, there is almost always a thought first, often so quick that you don't notice it. Denk je Slank is my way of recognising that thought, examining it and consciously choosing what to do with it.
This is my own method. I developed it by guiding women for years and through my training as an NLP practitioner. It is not a medical treatment, but it is a way to approach food more consciously.
What is Denk je Slank?
Denk je Slank assumes that behaviour starts with a thought. 'I've ruined it, so it doesn't matter any more.' 'I deserve this after a day like that.' Thoughts like these drive feelings, and feelings drive what you do. If you change the thought, the bite often changes too. I have written before about thoughts and body.
What happens right before the bite?
It usually goes in three steps: a trigger (stress, boredom, a remark), a thought ('I need this') and only then the bite. Most people only notice the last step. That is why it seems as if eating 'just happens'.
How do you recognise the thought before the bite?
- Pause briefly before you pick anything up. One breath is enough.
- Ask yourself: what am I thinking right now? What am I feeling?
- Write the thought down word for word, exactly as it sounds in your head.
- Examine it: is this true? Would I say this to a friend?
- Choose a new sentence that is kinder and more realistic.
Why does this work better than willpower?
Willpower fights an impulse that has already started. With Denk je Slank you step in earlier, at the thought itself. You can read more about the limits of willpower in why willpower doesn't work for losing weight.
What does this look like in a programme?
In my 6-month programme we practise this step by step, together with food, exercise and rest. Want to know if it suits you? Leave your details on the 1 on 1 coaching page, and Fleur will call you for a no-obligation chat. You can find everything about coaching in the weight loss coach guide. Want to keep eating in between easy? Take a look at our meal shakes. Also read Killermindset.
Frequently asked questions
What is Denk je Slank?
Denk je Slank is Fajah Lourens' method in which you learn to recognise and change the thoughts that come before eating.
Is Denk je Slank a diet?
No. It is a way of becoming more aware of your thoughts and behaviour around food, alongside healthy eating and exercise.
Can I practise this myself?
Yes, you can try the five steps above today. With guidance it usually goes faster and the results last longer.
Sources: Fajah Lourens' own method; Voedingscentrum (healthy eating behaviour); Thuisarts.nl (eating behaviour).
So I'm going to help you.
About the author: Fajah Lourens is the founder of Killerbody (since 2015), has written books that have sold 350,000 copies together, and is an NLP practitioner.
