#8 (Reflect)

Self-reflection during stressful times is a very important practice, especially if ones coping mechanisms become destructive. A common occurrence with overstress is overeating, learn how to stop the stress-eat-repeat cycle with these reflection tips.

Food offers comfort during times of stress. Over-stress & overeating go hand in hand, which may be why you find yourself cartons deep in ice cream after a hard week.
As nutrition coaches, we’re totally ok with fun foods in moderation. Too much can derail progress & lead to cycles of stress-overeating-guilt-restriction. Precision Nutrition offers tips on how to “Break the Chain”. Reflection in times of stress is important especially when it causes overeating.

1) Start with a recent food-related incident (eating foods you didn’t want, feeling out of control with your diet).
2) Write down the things occurring around the incident. Where were you, what were you thinking/feeling?
3) Go back further: how did your day start? Ask yourself the same questions above. Notice a pattern?
4) If you find a pattern, be curious. That doesn’t mean fixing things right away, look at the incident & the thoughts they link with. You may find a solution right away, but more importantly you’re aware.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, so take time to reflect. It doesn’t have to be in a bath with candles & smooth jazz, but you know what? That sounds nice.