I had a panic attack when I learned we would be moving to Georgia for my husband’s job.
While on a work trip, he called to share the news. Even now, I vividly recall that moment, as if it happened just yesterday. The thought of leaving my hometown and embarking on a cross-country relocation with our family filled my body with overwhelming stress.
After ending the call, I ran to the kitchen and eagerly opened the fridge, where I discovered the remnants of our summer camping adventure—a stash of leftover Hershey bars we used to make s'mores. I felt like a kid in Willy Wonka's world, ready to unwrap those delightful treats, hoping to uncover a magical golden ticket.
I removed the candy bars from the fridge and placed them on the counter. While contemplating my next move I swear the chocolate was staring back at me, whispering my name. You could cut the tension with a knife.
By that point on my journey to stop stress eating, I was aware of my patterns with food & emotional eating. I realized I was seeking comfort and relief in something sweet. A pattern I learned early in life.
The awareness offered an opportunity to pause long enough so I could ask a question and make a conscious choice.
Was the chocolate going to help?
No. Hershey didn't have the answer.
I took a deep breath, put the candy away, and returned to my home office to cry.
Emotional eating is a temporary fix for negative emotions we want to avoid. Once you’re on to yourself and your patterns with food the emotional triggers to eat will subside.
Next time you find yourself seeking relief in the pantry or fridge, take a moment to bring awareness to the situation.
Pause and ask yourself questions:
What emotions are you experiencing in that moment?
Does indulging in a snack truly hold the solution you seek?
Awareness can empower us to make the slightest adjustments that lead to positive change.
xo,
Amy
P.S. If you're ready to put an end to stress eating, book a complimentary consult to explore the underlying triggers that drive you to seek relief from food and learn strategies to regain control over your eating habits.
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