Today, one of our therapists, Morgan Sanford, will share some thoughts about eating disorder recovery during the holidays. A little bit more about Morgan…Morgan is dedicated to empowering individuals on their path to emotional well-being and personal growth. She customizes a holistic approach encompassing emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness for each unique client. Creating a safe and supportive environment is a top priority for Morgan, who specializes in working with individuals dealing with eating disorders, body image issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, perfectionism, and chronic pain/illness.
Her holistic therapeutic style draws from diverse approaches tailored to individual needs. Morgan’s compassionate and person-centered approach prioritizes the well-being of her clients. She’s a proponent of the Health at Every Size model, advocating for body acceptance and a positive body image.
For those seeking faith-based counseling, Morgan offers this option, addressing the spiritual needs and beliefs of her clients. Keep reading to see what Morgan has to share on this timely and important topic…
From Morgan:
With the holiday season just around the corner, I wanted to sit down with you for a chat about eating disorder recovery during this festive time. As the air gets crisper and the smell of pine fills the air, it’s essential to remember that the journey of recovery doesn’t take a break.
First things first, let’s acknowledge that the holidays can be a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, it’s a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. On the other, it can be filled with triggers and stressors, especially for those in eating disorder recovery. But fear not, because, with the right mindset and some helpful strategies, you can make it through the holiday season with your recovery journey intact and your spirits high.
Embrace Your Progress: First and foremost, take a moment to acknowledge how far you’ve come on your journey of recovery. Remember the strength and resilience you’ve shown in facing your eating disorder. The holidays should be a time to celebrate, and your progress is something worth celebrating, too! You’ve come a long way, and that’s something to be proud of.
Planning Ahead: Start by making a plan. Identify the potential challenges you might face during the holiday season. Knowing your triggers and preparing for them can make a world of difference.
Lean on Support: You don’t have to go through this alone. Share your concerns and needs with friends and family who understand your situation. Having a support system can be an absolute game-changer. They can be there to offer encouragement, a listening ear, or a distraction when you need it.
Set Realistic Expectations: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Recovery isn’t always a smooth journey. It’s okay to have moments of doubt or setbacks. The key is not to let those moments define your entire experience. Keep your expectations realistic and be kind to yourself.
Self-Care: Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Take time for yourself, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Whether it’s watching a heartwarming Hallmark Christmas movie or a cozy evening with a good book, prioritize self-care to recharge.
Remember, eating disorder recovery is a journey, and the holidays are just one part of it. And know that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. What’s most important is that you’re taking steps to care for yourself and your well-being.
So, this holiday season, let’s toast to progress, to love, and to togetherness. Take it one day at a time, celebrate every small victory, and keep your eyes on the bigger picture. You’ve got this, and I believe in you. Here’s to a warm and wonderful holiday season filled with love and self-compassion!
Affirmation of the Day: “I can be intentional with my choices, time, and in creating space for my recovery.”
We hope you enjoyed these thoughts on recovery during the holidays from Morgan today. If any of the words she shared resonated with you, perhaps today is the day to take some important steps toward healing and peace. To start working with Morgan, call our office today at 615.510.3797 or click here.
