I have spent the entire year writing about the power of good dress, fit, form, function, and flattery. Just this once, I am going to go against everything that I feel is right and true to teach you how to use your "bad" clothes (ill-fitting, unflattering, etc.) to make you happier and healthier. See below for Part III of a three part series. Part I examines the shrink and closet solution to out-of-control shopping habits. Part II examines the shrink and closet solution to dating issues.

Problem:
The inevitable holiday weight gain or late night, stress-induced binge fest, or any other moment of weakness, when trying to maintain your figure.

Shrink Solution:
The first thing I always ask patients is the reason for their health kick/diet plan/exercise routine. If they are truly trying to improve their health or, in fact, actually need to improve their health, I encourage them to continue their efforts. The majority of my patients who try dieting do not need to lose weight. I ask... are they trying to lose because they misperceive the shape of their body? Or are they trying to lose because they think thinner is better? Usually their desire to shape up has very little to do with the external body and everything to do with their inner world. It is there that we begin treatment.