Disordered eating + BOdy Image (ADULTS)
“Only by discovering and loving the goddess lost within our rejected body can we hear our own authentic voice.” - Marion Woodman
Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating: Eating disorders are symbolic and biopsychosocial disorders. They develop over time and are influenced and reinforced by society at large, your community, the medical establishment, social media, your genetic make-up, your relationship with food during childhood and how food was interacted with in your family, and a variety of other components. Additionally the symbolic component comes into play in that often times eating disorders or disordered eating are a literal manifestation of a symbolic issue. In other words a complex or several have developed in response to your life's experience. This complex creates a series of symptoms, and these symptoms attempt to create meaning and motion in your life. The attempt is often failed as it is completed through behaviors such as overeating, binge eating, purging, restriction, over-excercise, etc. When looked at symbolically rather than acted out, these behavioral urges can be unique messages to help us shine light on your truest needs, potentials, desires, and authentic life path.
Body Image: Body image issues share many similarities to eating concerns in that their origins are partially shared. Body image is also shaped over time, and influenced by a biopsychosocial lens. It is also wrought with symbolism. It is often influenced by how we see others in our world relate to their bodies, and it can also be shaped and heavily influenced when one is experiencing disordered eating or an eating disorder. Body image is also often a projection of internal struggles onto the external body. Individuals of all genders suffer with body image difficulties.
My approach to all of these issues is HAES (Health at Every Size) informed. I also endorse Intuitive Eating. I believe that within your body there is wisdom for you to take care of your body in a way that best suites you. This applies to how you feed yourself, move your body, and live your most authentic life possible in general. I am not a dietician, therefore I do not give specific advice regarding food. I encourage all patients to get assistance from a HAES informed dietician whenever possible/necessary.
Resources:
Women in Depth (Podcast episodes regarding Binge and emotional eating): https://jodiegale.com/top-6-podcasts-for-binge-and-emotional-eating/
Eating in the Light of the Moon (Book): https://dranitajohnston.com/eating-in-the-light-of-the-moon/
Intuitive Eating: https://www.intuitiveeating.org
Intuitive Eating Books: https://www.intuitiveeating.org/our-books/
Recovery Warriors: https://www.recoverywarriors.com
Food Psych (Podcast): https://christyharrison.com/foodpsych/
Health At Every Size (Book): https://lindabacon.org/health-at-every-size-book/
National Eating Disorder Association: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
