You know how it starts. Disappointments or elations, worry or contentment, frustration or encouragement: emotions drive you to eat. You begin to gorge yourself with anything you can get your hands on—sweets, high-calorie and high-fat foods. You know better, of course, but now you’re feeling out-of-control, even guilty. Between binges you may think about food all the time, or you may find a way to purge your system. Either way, this only sets you up for a vicious cycle of remorse, shame, then more self-loathing thoughts, vowing to yourself that this will be the last…until it all begins again.
If food is your obsession and taking top priority in your life, you may be suffering from a complex illness that requires professional help.
Below are some examples of small goals that may be helpful on your road to recovery from an Eating Disorder:
- Write a list of alternate activities to do instead of bingeing/purging in advance. Commit to trying at least 2 items on the list before giving in to the urge to binge or purge.
- Eat your meals sitting down- not standing at the counter or sink—in a relaxed or quiet environment, with no other distractions such as television, tablets or social media.
- Be Mindful with food. Experience the pleasure of your meal with as many of your 5 senses as you can. See your food, Smell the aromas, Feel the utensils in your hand, Taste all the flavors, Listen for the crunching sounds!
