Guilt and Stress

Guilt around eating is motivated by a short term perspective and it creates unhealthy stress that leads to binging.

Guilt around eating is not part of intuitive eating. Guilt is a short-sighted 5 letter word. Binging is a self-destructive temper tantrum. Anything that motivates you to abuse yourself is not intuitive. 

 A habit of dieting is to think about eating foods as "good" or "bad". This creates guilt and stress. Try to let go of that. Instead, think of eating intuitively, as satisfying or comforting. Use your senses, including common sense and eat to feel good. Intuitive eaters eat what they want. When they slip, intuitive eaters get back on track because they are motivated to look and feel good. 


It is natural to learn from eating experiences. There is no magic mirror of approval when it comes to your body. Measuring progress at every meal creates emotional stress and misses the bigger picture. What you eat is the foundation for the rest of your life. Every meal is a step along your path. Nobody walks a straight path because stuff happens. 

Intuitive eating is a long-term perspective because your body is constantly changing. It's intuitive to see the bigger picture instead of judging every meal. Eating is about nourishment. Life is a do-it-yourself project. You can adjust, correct, and not-repeat choices. You are in control. Your body will be the result of choices you make today. Decide to eat what looks and feels good.


This is a new year and a time of new beginnings. Respecting yourself is a combination of trust and honor. Now is a perfect time to respect your self. Really trust your heart, body, mind, and six senses to protect you and let that self-respect honor and guide your eating choices.