When you’re eating too much and it’s still not enough…
You know how it starts. Disappointments or excitement, worry or contentment, frustration or encouragement: emotions drive you to eat. You begin to stuff yourself with anything you can get your hands on- sweets, high-calorie and high-fat foods. You know better, of course, but now you’re feeling out-of-control, or if you are like some food addicts, you may find a way to purge your system.
If food is your obsession and taking top priority in your life, you may be suffering from a complex illness that requires professional help. Below are some small goals for breaking the cycle of food addiction…
1) Eat your meals more consciously by sitting down with no other distractions such as television or computer technologies to distract you from tasting your food.
2) Reward yourself with a task or activity that you enjoy AFTER you have eaten a healthy meal.
3) Write a list of alternate activities to do instead of bingeing/purging in advance. Then commit to trying 2 items on the list BEFORE giving into the urge.
When Life Throws a Curve Ball…
At one time or another, we can all expect to experience the unexpected. Life, with its many twists and turns, will eventually bring unforeseen loss, sorrow and bewilderment. Although, in our humanness, we would like to feel a sense of control over our destinies, the reality is that we are limited beings. Yes, we have the capacity to make choices and avoid potential consequences; but inevitably, to be alive means experiencing the unpredictablility of life from time to time.
Here are some suggestions on how to be prepared for the unexpected “curve balls” that life may throw your way…
1) Practice your Faith. Studies show that people who engage in a spiritual practice/prayer life on a regular basis are much better equipped to cope when tragedy and difficult times strike.
2) Nurture Valued Relationships. Life can get busy and friends often take a back seat to our other priorities. But in times of unexpected crisis, being surrounded by friends and family is crucial in overcoming grief and loss. Make the time to connect with the special people in your life.
3) Learn to Ask for Help. Sooner of later we all need a helping hand in life. It is a sign of strength to reach out to others when we can’t go it alone. So put your pride aside, and let others be there for you too.
Spring Cleaning for Your Thoughts
With the approach of springtime, our minds often turn to the tasks of cleaning house. Rejuvenating what has been worn away by winter and refreshing our homes for the seasons ahead.
Together with the tradition of sprucing up your home, springtime can also serve as a time to de-clutter your mind.
Here are three easy tips to help you get started:
1. Focus on your breath! How simple is that? Just bring your attention to your breathing. Bring your attention to your breathing as it comes into your body and then goes out. Let all other thoughts float by. Feel its calming effect.
2. Keep a To Do list. Give up the struggle of having to keep it all in your head. Write it down! That’s what pen and paper is for. Your overloaded mind will thank you.
3. Use your body, not your mind. Find at least 15 minutes a day to experience your body in motion. Take a walk around the block – feeling your foot against the pavement – or pay attention to your leg muscles bending and stretching, notice your arms swinging at your side.
And take the time to give yourself some much needed attention by relieving your mind from the pressures of the day.
Welcome To The Insight4Change Blog!
Insight4change is a private practice that specializes in helping adults (ages 18 and over) find a healthy way to cope with the challenges and transitions that life will inevitably bring. Through individual and couples therapy, you can gain an increased awareness into the obstacles that may prevent you from reaching your goals. The benefits of therapy are great! With increased knowledge and insight into oneself, you have the power to create lasting change.
I would like to personally welcome you to the Insight4Change blog, where I will offer tips and suggestions that you can implement into your daily routine. Use of these simple ideas may help you on the road to self-exploration and discovery! My hope for you is that you will find an opportunity to create more balance and freedom in your own life by trying a new approach to some common struggles. I believe a quote by George Bernard Shaw sums it up best, “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”
So welcome to the Insight4Change blog and enjoy your stay!
