As I've mentioned before on the blog, I have a history of disordered eating. I've gone from periods of severely restricting food to periods of eating everything in sight, and it's a pattern I've repeated several times. As a result, I have a really hard time figuring out when I'm hungry and when I'm full. I don't often get that grumbling tummy hunger signal, or that 'wow I'm so stuffed I can barely move feeling', no matter how little or how much I eat.
I've heard a lot about intuitive eating lately and it is definitely something I was interested in trying, so I was super excited when I found out about Studio Eats' Intuitive Eating Challenge. The challenge started a little over 2 weeks ago and it has been so amazing!
My goal in signing up was not to lose weight, but to relearn how to listen to my body and give it what it needs. It has definitely been an adjustment to stop over-thinking my food choices and to step away from my habits, but I have felt more freedom in the last few weeks than I have since I was kid!
I've noticed a few things that have been getting in the way of my truly listening to my body when it comes to food. One of the biggest things I want to work on is distracted eating. I have a tendency to eat my meals in front of the computer, which leads to overeating since I'm not actually paying attention to my food! Now, I have a really hard time doing one thing at a time, so eating in silence isn't something I'm willing to do at this point. However, I have switched out eating dinner at the computer for eating dinner with a book and even that has made a big difference. I am eating less in the evening, and therefore I'm starting to have an appetite in the morning!
I've also learned that my hunger signals don't always come in the form of a grumbling tummy. Other signs for me include getting irritated and impatient (I'm impatient at the best of times so it just gets extra bad :P), and a difficulty concentrating.
I am really enjoying this process and intuitive eating is something I will keep practicing and learning more about. I cannot recommend it enough for someone who has struggled with their relationship with food! If you're looking for a way to get started, I really encourage you to contact Jamie. I know she is running a challenge again in March so you might be able to join that! Check out her website at www.studioeats.com.
Have you ever tried Intuitive Eating?
This is fantastic - best of luck!
ReplyDeleteI think a lot of people will relate to distrated eating. I LOVE to eat infront of the computer while watching something..so, I end up just putting in front of me the exact amount of food I want to eat and remind myself no snacking, until later!
I know, it's so easy to lose track when you're doing something else!
DeleteGood for you for taking the time to figure out the best way to deal with your eating. It is so hard to find a good balance between being obsessive and managing your nutritional needs. I look forward to hearing more about it!
ReplyDeleteIt is really hard to find that balance! It will definitely be a process and I'll write about how it's going again soon :)
DeleteI have heard of people eating blind folded at a table, which allows them to slow down, enjoy the meal and really taste the food. I am curious to hear more about this Intuitive Eating.
ReplyDeleteBlind folded huh? That would be an experience! I definitely want to learn more, I've heard a lot of great things about the book Intuitive Eating so I want to get that and keep practicing!
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