Even years into recovery, those struggling with an eating disorder will struggle with meals. These are my go to tips when I myself am finding it to be a challenge to get through my meal.
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- Bitchin’ Playlist– Hell Yes. I have a playlist filled with motivational or feel good jams. Each song vibrates good energy and reminds me a. How good life is b. How strong I am and c. How there is more to life than my pant size.
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- Text a Support– Seems obvious but I forget I can do this about 90% of the time. When I’m struggling this always forces accountability. I typically text a support I’m struggling and we’ll either work out a meal I can manage or we’ll talk through what the issue seems to be. I have a love/hate relationship with accountability, but I know it’s a good idea! Try taking a picture of your meals to send to supports too.
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- Write Your Why Down– Either jot it down on a sticky note or on your iPhone, write a quick list of your WHY for recovery. What have you gained? Why is it worth it to recover? Writing down forces you to recognize and remember these things- pulling you back into the now and out of the eating disorder.
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- Keep a Recovery List- Sometimes if I’m struggling, I recall specific past recovery wins as references ie. I ate a whole cup of rice before and nothing happened- so I can eat it again this time. Keeping a journal of these wins helps you realize just how much you overcame and reminds you that despite these scary foods, nothing will change.
- Opt for “Safe foods”– We try to stay away from categorizing ‘safe’ goods in recovery, but when it’s the difference between eating and not eating, I think it’s worth it. Everyday is different. Sometimes a sandwich sounds great, other times it’s terrifying. On those days, I opt for ‘safe’ foods that I feel more comfortable eating.
