Guilt & shame & food

Feelings of guilt and shame from overeating aren't about the food. They're about all of the things we associate with food.

When we engage in behaviors that aren’t congruent with our values we’ve violated the essence of who we wish to be. Often, these behaviors have been tools to self soothe or protect us in the past. They are deeply engrained in our history and therefore very difficult to disengage from. They aren’t “bad” per se, they have been effective at what they’re meant for. But over time we change and what once worked for us now works against us.

So when you do engage in an overeating episode, be compassionate to yourself and recognize that these behaviors once served you. There’s no reason for shame. But moving forward, look to the reasons these episodes may happen.

Were they driven by a reaction to the actions of others? Were they driven by emotions around a situation? Were they driven by environment?

Identify your values. Identify your actions. And work to create a congruency between the two.

And remember, it’s never just about the food.