---

Episode Transcript

Hey, it’s Ryann, your guide at the Food Freedom Lab. Today, let’s delve into the challenges of recovery, particularly the difficulty of facing body changes. I know it’s tough, but remember, going back to the diet binge cycle is equally hard. Let’s navigate this journey together and find strength in choosing the path worth the struggle.

The Hard Part of Recovery: Body Changes

Recovery is no easy feat, especially when facing the uncertainty of how your body might change. The struggle is real, and I won’t shy away from acknowledging that. Today, let’s address a common challenge in recovery—navigating body changes and trusting the process despite discomfort.

The Importance of Your “Why”

I won’t stop emphasizing the importance of writing down your “why” before embarking on the recovery journey. When discomfort arises, and you question your decision, revisiting your “why” becomes your anchor. It’s a powerful tool to keep you grounded and motivated.

Listener’s Struggle

A listener reached out, sharing a struggle with body changes during two months of recovery. Despite positive experiences like enjoying meals and eliminating binges, the discomfort of tight clothes triggers negative thoughts, jeopardizing motivation. Can you relate? Let’s unpack this together.

Navigating Body Image Challenges

Body image is undeniably one of the toughest aspects of recovery. Society bombards us with messages that a smaller body equals happiness. When the discomfort sets in, and your pants feel tight, it’s natural for doubts to creep in. Remember, this is a journey, and acknowledging the difficulty is the first step.

Choosing the Hard Worth Fighting For

Here’s a truth—staying in recovery is hard, but going back to the diet binge cycle is equally challenging. Both paths entail discomfort and struggle. The crucial difference lies in choosing the hard that is worth the fight, the hard that leads to growth and a more fulfilling life.

Document Your Wins

Start a “win jar” or a journal. Celebrate every achievement, big or small. Whether it’s going out to eat without spiraling into a binge or reframing negative body thoughts, write it down. On tough days, revisit your wins to remind yourself of the progress you’ve made.

Join a Support Group

Consider joining a support group or recovery program. Sharing your journey with others who understand the struggle creates a powerful sense of community. It’s a safe space where victories and challenges are acknowledged, providing additional support on your path to food freedom.

Document Your Journey: Journaling and Video Diaries

Document your journey through journaling or video diaries. Express every emotion, win, and struggle. On challenging days, revisit your journal entries or watch your video diaries to reconnect with your journey and the reasons you chose recovery.

Choose the Hard Worth Fighting For

In conclusion, staying in recovery is undoubtedly difficult, but so is staying trapped in the diet binge cycle. The key is choosing the hard worth fighting for. Recovery gets easier, and the discomfort diminishes. Remember, this journey isn’t about fixing yourself; it’s about healing your relationship with yourself.

Links

🔗 Work With Ryann

🔗 Ryann’s Online Courses

🔗 Follow Ryann On Instagram

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryann, LPC | Binge Eating Therapist (@itsryannnicole)

Disclaimer: If you have or suspect that you have an eating disorder, be sure to get in touch with a qualified healthcare professional immediately. If you are in the United States and experiencing a medical or health emergency, please call 911 or call for appropriate emergency medical help.