What is Intuitive Eating?
We are all born intuitive eaters- knowing when we’re hungry or full, what our food preferences are, and what food experiences bring us comfort and joy. Unfortunately, for many people, external messages around food via advertising, diets, and wellness culture cause those natural signals to fade and sometimes disappear.
Intuitive Eating is a philosophy rooted in self-care and mindfulness. It rejects the failed pursuit of intentional weight loss, which often results in weight cycling, size discrimination, and eating disorders. Intuitive Eating helps individuals become more aware of their internal signals (e.g. hunger, fullness, emotions) while removing barriers to that awareness (e.g. rules, inflexible thought patterns).
There are 10 principles that guide Intuitive Eating, which your therapist will compassionately and expertly guide you through. Signs you are becoming an intuitive eater include being able to make food choices with less distress, noticing flexibility in your thoughts and beliefs about food, and being able to honor your feelings without using food.
If you are struggling with your relationship with food and/or your body please reach out to us. You deserve healing and we are here to help.