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Bad body image days are challenging. When you are in recovery, it can make it harder to nourish your body adequately. It may even create a fear of relapse. But have no fear! Here are some practical steps you can take to navigate these days with confidence.
How Knowing Your Triggers Can Promote Body Image Empowerment
It can be empowering to know what is out there that can trigger you. This doesn’t necessarily make it easy to navigate bad body image days, but it can remove some of the fear and feelings of defeat when you’re anticipating a tough day. Then, you can create a plan to remain recovery-focused before you feel triggered.
Think about your common eating disorder triggers, whether it’s listening to other people talk about their diets, noticing your clothes fitting differently, or eating around other people. Once you have identified these triggers, you can prepare for these situations.
Perhaps you buy comfortable clothes that fit your current body. Or, if you are often triggered by other people’s conversations about food or weight, you can practice setting boundaries during conversation or prepare to change the subject. Empower yourself with the tools to overcome bad body image days.
The Role of Positive Self-Image on Positive Body Image
If you are experiencing obsessive thoughts about wanting to change your weight or shape, this likely isn’t solely a body image issue. Negative body image can often be a sign of poor self-image. After all, when your self-worth is tied to your appearance, it makes sense that you would develop an eating disorder.
However, when you are able to find confidence, meaning, and fulfillment outside of your appearance, you may find that your body image improves. This doesn’t mean you’re going to fall in love with your body, but you may find it easier to exist in your body without wanting to change it.
Also, consider your self-care routines. It’s hard to appreciate something you don’t care for, and the same is true regarding your body. When you take care of your body with adequate food, water, and sleep, you may find that you begin to appreciate your body.
Plus, prioritizing self-care builds your confidence. You are carving aside time and energy for yourself, which may empower you to prioritize your value in other areas of life.
Practical Tips for Navigating Bad Body Image Days with Confidence
There are several steps you can take to help you manage bad body image days without them derailing your recovery. These include:
- Wear clothes that fit comfortably
- Unfollow triggering social media accounts
- Maintain personal hygiene, including regular showers
- Consider doing your hair or makeup if it helps boost your mood
- Eat nourishing meals and snacks
- Ensure that you are getting adequate amounts of sleep
- Find an activity that brings you joy
You don’t have to navigate these days alone. The compassionate staff at Toledo Center for Eating Disorders would be happy to support you through your journey to recovery. Contact us at 419-885-8800.