Finding Hunger

“Eating when we are hungry implies trusting the wisdom of our bodies; ultimately, it necessitates believing that our bodies know their appropriate weight better than we do.”  - Geneen Roth in Breaking Free of Emotional Eating

We eat for so many reasons:  because we are sad and need comfort, because we are happy and want to celebrate, or because it is time to eat.  But really, if you are honest with yourself, how much of the time do you eat simply because you are hungry? 

Your body knows what it needs, and so your job is to take the time to listen.  I often ask my clients to take a few weeks to simply eat with awareness.  Notice when you eat and why.  Notice how you feel during and after.  I encourage you to do the same thing.

Another great starting place is to start to notice, as you reach for something to eat, if you are hungry.  If you are not truly hungry, ask yourself why you are eating.  Maybe you have a set lunch hour and just have to eat.  But if you are reaching for food and you are not hungry ask yourself if there is something else you can do instead. 

For example, do you find yourself eating in the afternoon at work but aren’t truly hungry?  Perhaps you are simply restless from sitting all day.  Try taking a walk instead, getting a bit of fresh air or even just to the water cooler to get a drink of cool refreshing water. 

Or, do you find yourself snacking all evening when you are home alone?   Next time that snack-y urge strikes, try calling a friend instead, or write a letter to someone you love.  Everyone likes to get letters and you may find that taking time to feel the presence of those in your life will help to direct your energy to more positive outlets.   

The next step is to stop eating when you are satisfied.  If you find yourself overeating on a continual basis, this may be a place where you need to put more attention.   You will have an easier time noticing when you are satisfied if you eat more slowly.  Take small bites, chew your food thoroughly and check in with yourself along the way to see if it is time to stop. 

Remember to start small.  You can make it to your weight loss and health goals, but it will take time and many small steps.  Celebrate each of your victories – each time you chose to take a walk instead of mindless snacking and each time you chose to eat a meal that nourishes your body over food that you know will not fuel you.  You can do it!