How to Have a Better Relationship with Food and your Body.

In a world that is preoccupied with body image and appearance, and equates eating with morality, seeking support with distress in these areas can often feel complicated, unimportant or even radical. We are not all meant to look the same, and yet society would have us feel less than if we don't meet its ideal. Many of us struggle with this secretly, and it can feel isolating and all-consuming; after all, we cannot get away from food and our bodies.

Food and body image are always related to a deeper issue: feelings of not being good enough, of needing support but not knowing how to ask for it. It can be a way of feeling in control, of feeling attractive, loved, important, of being accepted.  I have worked in the field of food, eating and body for many years. No one has ever regretted getting help, and no issue is too small.

Finding a way to manage the stresses of life and being human is a key component of the work. Making one's life bigger than food or how they look is the key. Life can become so much more enjoyable when we work on having a good relationship with ourselves. 

I firmly believe in intentionality in relation to our bodies. We focus and give time and attention to all other relationships in our life; why not ourselves and our bodies? Like all relationships, it fluctuates. It's not about loving your body all of the time; I know that can be a big ask, but it's about learning how to live in it, nourish it and respect it, especially those times when it lets us down or doesn't feel good enough. 

So, how do we do this? 

Three top tips 

1. Notice negative self-talk- How do you talk to yourself about your body? Are you kind? Would you say these things to a friend? How we talk to and about ourselves makes a difference and conditions our brain to seek and focus on these perceived faults.

2. Spend time with your body with intention- I know this at first might not make sense; you can't exactly be without your body, but how often do you spend conscious time caring for it? Engaging it in fun activities? Spending time on your skincare or makeup? This small act can help us appreciate our body for more than what it looks like, but also what it feels like and some of the amazing things it can do for us.

3. Be discerning about who you follow on social media- social media is often someone's highlight reel, its not true life. What we consume can have a major impact on how we think and feel about ourselves. If you find yourself scrolling and feeling bad about yourself and your life or comparing yourself negatively, it might be time to unfollow or take a social media break. Find accounts that are diverse and that bring joy. 

You don't have to struggle alone. If you would like support with your eating or body image, send me an email so we can arrange a free consultation.