Food is more than just fuel for the body, as it can impact our social and emotional lives as well. Think about going out for coffee or brunch with friends, indulging in large meals for the holidays, celebrating successes with champagne and a fancy dinner, and healing break ups with a pint of ice cream… It is clear that eating can become a convoluted process when we add our emotions into the mix.
If you find that you automatically gravitate toward food during periods of high emotion, here are some alternative tasks to try first:
1. If you feel sad or lonely: call someone who always makes you feel better, play with a pet, or look at a favorite photo or cherished memento.
2. If you feel anxious: expend nervous energy by dancing to a favorite song, squeeze a stress ball, or take a walk outside.
3. If you feel exhausted: enjoy a hot cup of tea, take a bath, light some scented candles, or wrap yourself in a warm blanket.
4. If you feel bored: read a good book, watch a comedy show, explore the outdoors, or turn to a hobby or activity you enjoy (playing an instrument, exercising, drawing, scrapbooking, etc.).
