Avoiding stress eating, learning to breathe

Just when I think it is as busy at it can get at my office, it gets worse. And, my counseling business is picking up, and our group sessions have started. I am “on staff” at a great wellness center in Bethlehem Pennsylvania at which I should be doing workshops soon. I am stressed!!!!!!

My immediate reaction as I walk in the door is, of course, to get down on the floor with my poodle and snuggle with him for a few de-stressing moments. Then it is on to the kitchen to greet my husband and to see what’s cooking! But it takes me a good while to unwind, and my normal reaction to stress, like many of you, is to grab something quick to mindlessly eat. This is contrary to what I know is right, contrary to what I preach!

Eating for stress reduction is too common, and often the source of unwanted pounds. I have in the past nibbled my stress away, but lately I have been trying to use the tactics I try to teach to my clients: afterall, I want to walk the walk, not talk the talk! Even after I finish my meal, sometimes I am still feeling the leftover stress of the day, and I want to impulsively grab for more food. Mostly it is of good quality– maybe some nut butter, or a piece of dark chocolate. But I know I shouldn’t be hungry, and I am eating for other reasons. Lately I have been reading a lot about breathwork, and how different forms of breathing can invigorate or calm the body. I have been challenging myself to some good belly breathing so that I can strengthen my breathing muscles and make use of the techniques I am learning (and then I plan on teaching them to my clients!) I have to admit, it is hard work, but the outcome is so rewarding. I can feel myself getting anxious and I can change my breathing patterns to trigger my parasympathetic nervous system which elicits the calming response—-awesome!!! it takes practice, but it is so worthwhile!

I encourage you to experiment with breathing away your stress. There are many books to be found on breathwork, or you can consult any  yoga practitioner or meditation teacher. I highly recommend it as a quick and wonderful way to de-stress your body and mind after a long day. Or sign up for a program with me and I will teach you how to breathe! as well as eat well and nourish your body and soul.

Be well,

Diane