Eating Disorders Support Group
Eating disorders are marked by an obsessive need to control the intake and/or purging of food. This community is dedicated to those struggling on the road to recovery. Join to discuss your experience with others and find support. Get advice, ask questions, and meet others who are going through similar struggles.
I was driven to bulimia as an emotionally fragile 16 year old with a boyfriend who was calling her fat behind her back and making fun of how affectionate and loving she was towards him. Now at age 24, I am dating the most amazing man, who I know will be my husband, and who loves every inch of my person and my body. Yet still, I'm haunted by 8 years of insecurity and purging. I am making a conscious effort to work on myself and develop a sense of self love, but it isn't easy. If anyone else is going through this struggle, please relate. I want so badly to accept the love my boyfriend gives me, but find myself constantly pushing it away and putting myself down.
One exercise I was instructed to do once was to look in a mirror and insult myself (which came easy) and then notice my posture, the look on my face and how I felt. Then I was to say something nice about myself and notice the same three things. I noticed that when I insulted myself my shoulders sagged, I looked sad and I felt so hurt. But when I said something nice I stood taller, my eyes brightened and opened wide, I smiled and I felt happy. Science has proven that the brain can't tell the difference between someone else insulting us and us insulting ourselves. This is also true for the positive kind words we say to ourselves. So keep it kind!!! :-)
Melise, it is absolutely easier said than done! You think "ok, I am going to be positive to myself today", then look in a mirror and see that all go down the toilet. One day at a time I guess.