Tips to check in with negative thoughts so you don't check out with food.

Have you ever had a negative thought loop in your mind and you just can’t shake it? You know it’s happening, but you can’t seem to climb out of the negativity. Perhaps someone said something unkind to you, accused you of something or just wasn’t really listening and understanding you. Maybe you said something you wish you hadn’t.

Did those toxic thoughts lead you straight to the pantry or fridge? If you found yourself escaping in the cookies, chocolate or chips, you are not alone. It is an automatic response. Your thoughts of being unheard, misunderstood, taken advantage of or mistreated can lead you to want an escape and food is the easiest way to drown out those thoughts.

This can go on replay all day long, but then the train picks up speed. When you have negative thoughts, you start seeing the whole day in a negative light and start to question yourself.

I should have said something else.

I wish I could keep my emotions in check.

I’m not good enough.

I never follow through.

I am a failure.

They don’t like me.

I just can’t stop eating

When you feel insecure with yourself or mistreated, you want to feel better right away and sugar, fat and salt are a quick fix.

One BIG issue is how the negative thoughts affect your relationship with food. You feel like you have no control over food.

You do have the power to slow those thoughts down and get in tune with yourself so you don’t check out with food. It takes practice and working on these mindful steps all day can help you when you get caught off guard.

Here are some tips:

Question the thoughts. Is the situation true? Are you predicting an outcome before it happens? Sometimes your mind will fool you because of old or past experiences. Act as an observer and be curious about why you are bothered by the thoughts.

Tap or meditate for positive thinking (or letting go of negative/toxic thoughts). I teach clients to tap in order to cut off that negative loop. You may feel tapping is easier if you find meditation difficult. You can also slow your heart rate down with breathing.

Gratitude. When you feel abundant in all areas of your life, your brain will look for those good things. Small joys seem appear more often when we practice gratitude. It can help turn the negative thoughts to positive.

Don’t believe everything your brain says. Those negative thoughts about yourself and your responses may be from someone telling you that as a child or in a previous relationship. Just because someone said it in the past, doesn't mean it is your story now.

Walk outside in nature. Seeing sunshine, trees or the beach can move your negative thoughts along and increase endorphins. Walking has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression. Exercise will also start a flood of positive hormones that will help you think more clearly.

Give yourself a break if you do use food as your comfort. This process takes time and you can keep practicing with every situation. Give yourself grace.

Would you like to learn more about emotional eating coaching? Apply here for a consultation.

Sending you positive vibes and love!

XOXO,

Kim