I’m Taking Myself Through Binge Eating Recovery: A Personal Journey

I’m 38 years old and I’m taking myself through binge eating recovery.

For years, I struggled with an on-again, off-again, diet and binge relationship with food. I’d swing from periods of strict dieting to episodes of uncontrollable binging. It was an exhausting cycle filled with guilt, shame, and frustration. I thought that at my age, I was simply “dieted out” – unable to follow through on any dietary changes recommended by healthcare providers.

But something shifted recently. I realized that my problem wasn’t a lack of willpower; it was a deeper issue that required a complete system reboot.

Discovering a New Approach

My turning point came when I stumbled upon two life-changing books: “Allen Carr’s Easy Way to Quit Emotional Eating” and “Brain Over Binge.” These books didn’t rely on the traditional willpower-based methods often used in recovery programs. Instead, they delved into the neuroscience behind binge eating, offering a clear and (surprisingly) painless path to quitting.

Learning about the brain’s role in my behavior was eye-opening. It helped me understand the triggers, the cravings, and the underlying emotions that fueled my binges. Armed with this knowledge, I felt empowered to take control of my eating habits.

My Wellness Journey

As I progressed through my recovery, I realized that many of the tools that helped me were found in the wellness space. It wasn’t just about changing my relationship with food; it was about cultivating a lifestyle that nourished my body and mind.

I started incorporating stress management techniques like tech boundaries, morning light, strength training and long-ass runs in nature. I discovered the importance of sleep, exercise, and connecting with supportive communities. I also began to explore different holistic practices, such as aromatherapy and sound healing, to further enhance my well-being.

The best advice I have right now is to identify what’s fun for you and do more of it. Addiction has been defined by a narrowing of what a person finds fun; because the addiction cycle just gets louder and more demanding. Having fun is not trivial, it’s our key to addiction recovery. I highly recommend reading ‘The Power of Fun‘ by Catherine Price to figure out what you think is fun, and how to do it more.

Sharing My Progress

I’ve been sharing my daily progress on Instagram, where I’ve found a community of like-minded individuals who are also on their own wellness journeys. It’s been incredibly inspiring to connect with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of recovery.

In this blog, I’ll be sharing more about the specific tools and practices that have been instrumental in my journey. My hope is that by openly sharing my experiences, I can help others who are struggling with binge eating find their own path to recovery.

Remember, recovery is not a linear process. There will be setbacks and challenges along the way. But with the right tools, support, and a commitment to self-care, it’s possible to break free from the cycle of binge eating and create a life filled with health, happiness, and freedom.

Let’s Connect!

If you’re interested in following my journey, be sure to check out my Instagram page Jayne.Life. I’d love to hear from you and connect with others who are passionate about wellness and recovery.

Disclaimer: I am not a healthcare professional. This blog is based on my personal experiences and should not be taken as medical advice. If you are struggling with binge eating, please seek professional help.