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Overeating to feel better emotionally? It’s a very common issue.
We have so much pressure on us, and it seems like there’s never enough time to do everything for our families and at work – let alone take a few minutes to take care of ourselves. So, it’s only natural to turn to, say, mashed potatoes and gravy to feel better, right?
Why do you think they call it “comfort food,” after all?
But take a moment to consider what’s going on in your head and your heart that’s compelling you. The compulsion is particularly nasty because it strikes when we’re vulnerable, struggling
with a problem, stress, or just boredom. You’re also more likely to eat high-calorie, sweet or salty junk because it’s convenient and brings “instant relief.”
But, since difficult situations are a part of life, you need to acquire tools to help yourself, rather than pouring gasoline on the fires.
Here are some tools to help you:
1. Track your food. Use a journal or an app, and you’ll start to see patterns between how you feel and how you eat.
2. Manage your stress. What’s bugging you? Identify the source of the problem and deal with it directly. Try meditation or yoga, practices that help us remain calm.
3. Wait a minute. You might be reaching for a snack because you’re bored or out of habit. So, pause and ask: Am I really hungry, or is something else going on? You might be
angry, lonely or tired.
4. Remove temptation. Don’t buy high-calorie treats to have within easy reach at home or at work.
5. Instead, keep fruit, nuts, vegetables and other healthy snacks around.
6. Pay attention to yourself. This all comes down to mindful eating – which means paying attention to what you’re consuming, eating slowly, expressing gratitude, and stopping
when you’re 80% full.
There are better ways to comfort yourself when you’re emotional.
- Go for a walk.
- Take some deep breaths.
- Play with a pet.
- Drink a cup of soothing tea
- Get to the gym.
These will bring emotional comfort without the ugly aftertaste of guilt.
Recipe for Honey Chamomile Tea
It’s great hot, room temp, or cold!
Honey-Chamomile Tea
(serves 4)
🔹4 cups (1 liter) boiling water
🔹6 bags chamomile tea
🔹2 tsp grated fresh ginger
🔹½ lemon, washed and cut into slices
🔹2 tsp honey
🔹3 sprigs rosemary
Combine all ingredients in a large heat-resistant bowl. Let steep (covered) for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
Strain the liquid and squeeze out as much liquid from the tea bags as you can.
Pour into a cup and sip away!