The only problem food can solve is physical hunger.
Yet, we try to solve our worry, boredom, restlessness and overwhelm with cookies, crackers, chips or (insert whichever foods you want here).
We eat and eat, but our problems are right there waiting for us after the last bite is gone.
Often we inherit new problems too.⠀
For example…⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- We feel bloated, and our digestion suffers.
- We feel tired and low on energy.
- We feel weighed down physically but also mentally too.
- Our clothes fit too tight.
- We’re left with the shame, guilt, and regret of our lack of control around food.
Next time you have the urge to reach for food to solve an uncomfortable emotion you’re feeling, here’s what I suggest:
- Set a timer for 1 minute on your phone.
- Move out of your head and into your body.
- Breathe deeply and slowly (in through your nose, out through your mouth).
- Witness yourself experiencing the urge. Notice any thoughts associated with it. For example, you might have several justifications for why you should just eat the food (i.e. I deserve a treat, I’ve had a hard day, a few bites won’t make a difference, this will make me feel better.)
- Relax your muscles, keep breathing, and stay with the feeling until the timer goes off.
Next time try 2 minutes. Then 5 minutes. Then 10 minutes.
Build up your endurance — not endurance in resisting, using willpower, or distracting yourself, but endurance in feeling, allowing, and being with your feelings, without having to escape, numb, or buffer them away.
It takes practice, but the more you can disobey that “urge” (to reach for and eat the food) by taking a pause first, the more you’ll start to decondition that automatic reflex to reach for the food in the first place.
You’ll also begin to build confidence in yourself, knowing that there are no emotions you can’t handle.
So what do you say?
Let’s “fire” food from the job of solving our problems (with the exception of physical hunger, of course).
Elaine
Hi! I’m Elaine, a Certified Nutritionist and Master Certified Health Coach. I support women in achieving their health and body goals while prioritizing a peaceful and balanced relationship with food.
Get a free copy of my handbook!
The Elegant Eating Handbook: Timeless Strategies for Lasting Weight Loss and a Peaceful Relationship with Food.
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