On a health journey, healing your relationship with food will benefit you more than avoiding it. When you avoid food that has power over you, you are handing over control to those foods. It may sound corny, but you have to take your power back. It will be a long process, but it’s worth it. Health journeys are lifelong, so you have the time.
Here are some tips & exercises you can try:
- Practice allowing portions of foods you avoid. Like, eat one donut or two cookies.
- Reserve 200-400 calories for snacks or desserts
- Try alternatives to improve those foods and cut calories.
- Practice mindful eating and throwing away the remaining food. You don’t need to eat until it’s gone. Eat until you are satisfied.
- Have a mindset that you can enjoy the foods you like. Since you can eat those foods, there is no need to binge like it is your last time enjoying them.
- Allow yourself to eat high calories meals at restaurants a couple of times a month. The other times you eat out, eat smaller portions or make healthy adjustments to lessen the calories. Ex: Grilled chicken sandwich with a small side salad.
- Be mindful and hold yourself accountable. Track what you eat, but don’t be obsessive or punish yourself. The point is to be aware, so you can make adjustments that work long-term.
You want to strive for balance; indulging too much or avoiding isn’t a balanced way of life. Your goal should be to enjoy foods you like without losing control. To be able to enjoy food without guilt, shame, or punishment. Healthy eating habits should not be a punishment; change your thinking surrounding “good” and “bad” foods. It is all just food; it has no power unless you give it power. Imagine living a healthy, active life; full of things you enjoy, including food. It is possible to reach a healthy weight without over-restricting and suffering. You can do this by learning what works for you, starting small, and being consistent. It is a long journey, but you don’t have to suffer. It can be full of powerful growth and pleasure. Be gentle with yourself as you learn and grow. Keep moving forward.
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