It is Just Food ... or is it Just Food?

Ah, The Holidays! Most people with a normalized relationship to food and eating look forward to the holidays, including the feasting that accompanies these celebrations. However, if you are struggling with food/eating/weight issues you may be petrified at the very thought of facing a holiday party or sitting down with family to share a meal. In one sense ( when you can hear your truth channel) you understand that it is just food. There is no reason to fear food and eating, right? It is not a deadly poison or a sinister enemy. If you are reading this particular blog you probably understand that the fear can be so strong that it is almost debilitating. In a way, it is not just food. It is facing the challenge of being surrounded by sumptuous food that you would love to eat; yet you are anxious that if you start eating you may not be able to stop. It is being deathly afraid to taste Grandma's sweet potato casserole which you dearly love because you are convinced that you will gain 50 pounds from such an indulgence. Or, your concern might be over seeing relatives that you haven't seen in ages because you are certain that they will make comments about your weight and body. Here are some suggestions to help you through these times:

• Remember that food and feasting are a part of all celebrations, in every culture.
• Although food will be part of the holiday experiences, try to not make your celebrations all about the food.
• Have a plan of action for challenging situations. For example, rehearse how you might respond if someone comments about your food, eating or weight.
• Designate a "support partner" that you can contact should stressful situations arise.
• Focus on enjoying the foods you only get to eat once or twice a year. Think about pleasant memories involved with sharing these foods with those we love.
• Strive to keep a normal schedule of eating, sleeping and moderate activity to give some stability during potentially chaotic times.
• Focus on all that you do enjoy about the holidays. The music, time with friends and family, the special aroma and decorations!
• Remember, it is for a season. This time period will not last forever, even if it might seem that way at times!
• Listen for and confront eating disorder chatter by turning up "the truth channel". Don't give in to ED!

Remember ... the most important conversation you can change is the one you have with yourself!

Will-Power Number Nine

To continue our series on the 10 will-powers, here is will-power number nine:

"I WILL surround myself with people and things that make me feel good about myself and my abilities. When I am around people and things that support me and make me feel good, I will be less likely to base my self-esteem on the way my body looks."

Who are the people and things that support you and make you feel good?


EDCT thanks NEDA for contributing to this post.

More on "Will-Powers"

Last week, we began a series on "will-powers."

Here is "will-power" number seven: I WILL think of three reasons why it is ridiculous for me to believe that thinner people are happier or "better." I WILL repeat these reasons to myself whenever I feel the urge to compare my body shape with someone.

What are your reasons? Share below!

(P.S. In case you missed the explanation last week: More than 20 years ago, researchers Michael Levine, PhD, and Linda Smolak, PhD, developed a list of "10 'Will-Powers' for Improving Body Image." Check out the whole list.)

EDCT thanks NEDA for contributing to this post.