Binge eating is a habit that strips you of your power with food and yourself.
It leaves you feeling like you have no control.
When the urge strikes you lose all ability to think clearly, check in with yourself, or make a conscious choice. The idea of "just one bite" or "just one piece" goes out the window before you can finish the thought. Something inside takes over and you can't stop yourself. After a binge you survey the damage. You see what transpired. The empty food wrappers serve as evidence, along with overwhelming guilt and a sick stomach. You feel betrayed by your own self. Confusion sets in. "What happened? Why do I keep doing this?". Then, dread. "I have no control. There's something wrong with me." Then, worry. "When will it happen again? Why can't I stop?" Self-judgement keeps the cycle spinning. In order to break the cycle, something has to change. Change happens when you're willing to drop the judgement and look at the pattern with acceptance, curiosity, and compassion.
Acceptance: I binged again. I've been doing this a long time. It keeps happening. I'd like to change this.
Curiosity: What was happening right before the binge? What was I thinking? Feeling? What did I want the food to fix?
Compassion: I've had this habit for a long time. It's not going to change overnight. This is something I can figure out. I'm worth it.
The next time you binge...
Become your own investigator. Explore the facts. Instead of beating yourself up, change the conversation (see above). Notice what's different when you stop swimming in shame and treat yourself just a little bit better. This is how you break the cycle.
I'm a food and body confidence coach for women who want to stop binge eating. In 6 months you can break the habit of binge eating, and have a healthier relationship with food that will serve you for the rest of your life. To learn more, schedule a consultation here. xo, Amy
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