Overcoming Body Image Struggles in Eating Disorder Recovery
Disclaimer: This post reflects on my personal experience with body image distress during my journey of eating disorder recovery, which included necessary weight gain. I want to acknowledge that the severity of an eating disorder is not determined by body weight or shape, and that body image distress can affect anyone, regardless of size. I also recognize that I benefit from thin privilege in our culture and did not face discrimination due to my recovered body size. I have deep empathy for those who do, and strive for a culture where weight, size, and health are viewed objectively and not tied to one's identity.
Recovering from an eating disorder can be a difficult process, with body image distress often being one of the biggest challenges. In this article, we explore ways to address and manage these feelings during recovery.
"Beauty is not about being perfect, it's about embracing your unique imperfections."
Challenge negative thoughts
Negative thoughts about your body can be one of the most distressing aspects of eating disorder recovery. Try to recognise these thoughts and challenge them by questioning their validity and replacing them with more positive, self-compassionate messages.
With time, I started recognizing that my eating disorder didn't define me entirely and didn't comprise all my thoughts and beliefs. I started paying attention to and following the guidance of my inner wisdom and true self.
By acknowledging this part of me that didn't agree with my eating disorder, I was able to counteract its negative thoughts and messages. This became a key factor in my recovery journey and I still apply it today when dealing with my inner critic or perfectionist tendencies.
This TEDx talk is a fantastic discussion on body image resilience and the significance of not treating ourselves as objects, a habit that can easily become normalised over time. It aligns perfectly with the idea of perceiving ourselves beyond just our physical appearance.
Practice self-care
Self-care is an important aspect of eating disorder recovery. Some tips for practicing self-care in eating disorder recovery include: finding a healthy balance between nutrition and physical activity, engaging in activities that bring you joy, practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, reaching out to a support system such as friends, family, or a therapist, setting achievable goals and taking small steps towards recovery, and seeking professional help when needed. It's important to remember that recovery is a journey, and self-care practices can help you cultivate a healthier relationship with your body and food.
Surround yourself with positive influences
Surrounding yourself with positive people and influences can help to counteract negative body image thoughts. Try to surround yourself with friends, family, or support groups who support and encourage your recovery.
The Impact of Alternative Images and Information
Examining artworks of women from past eras such as the Renaissance and sculptures of goddesses that differ from modern beauty standards influenced me greatly. I sought out pictures of larger, well-known women and those who have overcome body challenges, and eventually came to see their beauty. By avoiding media that perpetuated mainstream beauty ideals, I was able to challenge and unlearn my previous beliefs. I now view my own body, including its fat and lack of toning, as normal, feminine, and even beautiful.
Some wonderful social media accounts and blogs to follow, plus books to read on body positivity and fat acceptance are:
Instagram:
Facebook:
Blogs:
Books:
Focus on health, not appearance
Instead of focusing on your appearance, focus on improving your overall health and wellness. This can help to shift your focus away from body image and towards other, more positive aspects of your life. Focusing on health instead of appearance can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle. To shift this focus, one can start by setting personal health goals, such as eating nutritious foods, instead of striving for a certain body shape or size. Surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and avoiding comparisons with others can also help in this journey. Keeping track of physical progress, such as improved energy levels and reduced stress, can serve as a motivation to continue prioritising health over appearance.
Remembering that true beauty comes from within and embracing self-care practices can also play a big role in making the shift towards a healthier mindset.
Get professional help
It's important to seek help from a mental health professional, like myself, if you're struggling with body image distress. They can help you to develop coping strategies and provide support as you navigate this difficult time in your recovery journey.
In conclusion, body image distress is a common and challenging aspect of eating disorder recovery. By using the strategies outlined above, you can work through this distress and continue to make progress in your recovery. Remember that recovery is a journey, and it's okay to take things one day at a time. With time, support, and perseverance, you can overcome this obstacle and achieve a more positive and healthy relationship with your body.
If you wish to work with me one on one, then I offer Recovery Coaching where I can help you go through your recovery step by step and offer support and accountability. Read more and apply to my coaching waitlist HERE.
