Food Rules

Never do this, always do that, I don’t eat blank, I eat blank every day… The list can go on and on of rules that we make up around food. You know what… those rules can seem helpful at first. Sometimes structure can help us learn new eating habits, retrain our tastes, and shift our gut microbiome (which can help shift our cravings). However, rules can also give food a lot of power. It’s just food. It’s not a moral choice, it does not define you. Food is to nourish our bodies, to bring us joy (think of a baby eating), bring people together (which nourishes our soul). It can be a creative endeavor for some or it can be a way of serving those around us, but it should not be a source of guilt. If you are stuck in a cycle of eating and guilt or dieting and binging, don’t jump into another diet. Talk to someone. Finding freedom from that cycle can be so empowering. Real change doesn’t happen over night, it’s not a quick fix, but it’s worth the work!

Need some baby steps? What about a couple deep breaths and some mindful questions. Am I hungry right now? What does my body/ mind need right now? Is there something besides food I am wanting or avoiding? How will I feel physically after I eat this? Can I sit down and really savor this?

Want to talk more? I would love to connect! XO