How to Manage Emotional Eating During a Pandemic

This year has been weird. Real weird.

BUT, it's also been one that has forced us to really slow down and look at ourselves (which I think is a good thing!).

As we head into our second lockdown in Alberta, emotions seem to be all over the place.

And understandably so. Not only is the holiday season approaching but Covid doesn't appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.

So, that leaves me with this question....

How are you dealing with all the emotions of the pending lockdown (in Alberta at least)?

I know that food can seem like it provides some temporary comfort from all of the emotions we are feeling. But in the end, it can't really help us feel less stressed, less frustrated, less bored, less fear or less lonely. And when eating is our only way of coping with our emotions it can become problematic.

I believe that for such a time as this, you can choose another way to cope with your emotional eating. And here's how:

1. Practice self-compassion. Beating yourself has never helped anyone. Ever. You also wouldn't berate a loved one who was struggling with the same. You would offer them compassion and an ear to listen. How can you be kinder to yourself?

2. Identify your emotions. I believe expanding your emotional vocabulary can really help you understand what's going on for you right now and what you really need for support because every emotion you experience may need something different. For instance, if I'm feeling isolated - I desire physical touch in the form of a hug from a loved one or myself (yes, I hug myself!) and if I'm feeling frustrated - I desire to release my frustration through movement like sprinting.

3. Brainstorm other things that would be more helpful. If you're eating to comfort your emotions, is it working? I'm going to guess that it's probably not.. so what would be more helpful? Can you identify 5 other things that you can do instead of eating? Maybe it's journaling, calling a friend, going for a walk, having a hot bath, screaming into a pillow. Whatever works for you, write them out and post them on your fridge or pantry.

4. Find ways to connect. Your heart wants connection, not food. So, how can you stay connected during a time of physical separation? How can you deeper your connection to yourself? During my coaching programs, I often talk about applying the 5 Love Languages to yourself and giving yourself exactly what you need to feel loved and connected.

5. Practice self-care. Are you eating enough nutritionally balanced meals throughout the day? Are you moving your body daily? Are you meditating? Journaling? Sleeping? Finding something fun that you can do?

6. Seek help. You don't have to do this on your own. As someone who has struggled with both depression and anxiety, I know how hard it can truly be to reach out and ask for help. Whether you book a session with another professional or a free session with me, it can really make a difference in your life right now.

What to do next...

1. Any questions? Leave me a comment below.

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