A new reader recently emailed me this question…
“My biggest thing is just eating when I don’t really want to. Could be boredom, could be stress, could be I just like the taste of food. I just can’t focus or lose weight currently, and I’m so frustrated. I want to because of my health, and you’d think that would be motivation enough.”
Here’s my response, and the first step you can take today, if you’re feeling similar…
“A great practice is to journal on the following questions at every meal for a week, or even at one meal per day, if that feels more attainable…
- What emotions am I feeling right now?
- Why am I eating?
- What’s the deeper need, if any?For example, do I need love, touch, attention, connection, intellectual stimulation, pure entertainment (like a great movie or book), to process an emotion?Does my body actually need movement right now, like a walk or a 20-minute workout?
Your answers will give you deeper insights into why you’re eating, and put you in the driver’s seat, rather than just being along for the ride.
Another option is to simply pause and answer these questions mentally before each meal, but studies have shown that writing out your answers is more effective for behavioral change.
Even if you don’t change anything about your food habits, being aware of your why and the emotions behind your choices will give you your power back.”
Do you find yourself eating out of stress or boredom?
Do you often feel disconnected from your body and food, not really understanding why you eat?
Post a comment below – I’d love to hear from you.
XO,
Lula