4 steps to banish food cravings and binging
Did you know that shame is at the root of all compulsive behavior?
If you feel shame after eating a burger, you are setting yourself up for cravings and binging. This is why diets fail, and why people gain more weight afterwards. The reverse of shaming oneself is praising, respecting and honoring the self.
Celebrate: So next time you eat a burger, say: "I'm eating food I love and I am going to enjoy this!" Then savor it. Make the pleasure last, as if you were receiving a massage. Taste every morsel! Chew each mouthful until it turns liquid. Then say: "Good job! I have given myself food that tasted really good and I loved it."
Plan: Be like the French or Italians, or any foodie culture. I've known people who love designing meals and who just love the whole ritual of sitting at table with friends and sharing a great meal. There's something about the experience of planning and making it beautiful that satisfies the psyche.
Talk: If you do feel shame, talk about it. According the Brené Brown, shame loves darkness. The minute you shed light on it, it disappears. So talk about your feelings.
Explore: Go for other pleasures too. There's nothing wrong with pleasure, so why not find other sources besides food. Things like: human touch, hot bubble baths, making or experiencing art or music, playing sports, reaching goals, going on an adventure, and chatting with friends.
For more information on shame, check out this Brene Brown talk.