What if perfect weight isn’t about a number on the scale but rather about a feeling of energy and vitality?
When I embarked on a diet that ultimately led to me losing 130 lbs, I was, of course, thrilled by the external validation. The compliments and approval fed my ego. But something profound happened even before I lost a single pound, I began to feel a surge of energy and vitality within my body. This newfound vitality was more compelling than the weight loss itself, and it kept me committed to the diet.
Week 3
This week, after undergoing treatments with Zerona and the Life Vessel, I have begun to feel that same vitality again. It is a powerful reminder of why taking care of my body is so crucial. I’ll share more about that in a moment.
As I lay in the Life Vessel my mind starts spinning about getting to work on time, what I have to do today, ect., ect. I am able to relax a bit with the help of the music. Then once I get onto the Zerona, and it’s quiet the worries come out again in full force. I realize that today I feel like I’m squeezing in these treatments before work and I don’t have time to spare. Feeling pressured for time, and always being in a hurry can actually be one of the primary motivators for my emotional eating.
This past week, I faced moments when I craved sweets or snack foods. We live in a world where we are constantly bombarded with advertisements for manufactured foods lacking in nutrients. The cakes in the bakery look irresistibly pretty, and those crunchy chips seem so satisfying. The temptation is everywhere, and it's hard to resist when you’re running on empty.
I've learned that self-care is like a bucket that needs to be regularly filled. When my bucket is running low, resisting the readily available junk food feels like a Herculean effort. But when my bucket is full, the thought of eating that pretty cake is just a fleeting temptation, and it’s easy to just keep walking.
Over the years, I’ve discovered the importance of allowing myself to slow down. The hurry culture was so deeply ingrained in me that I often felt rushed even without reason. I would be going somewhere like the park on a weekend, no special time I have to be there, but still feel like I’m rushing. Recognizing this self-imposed pressure was the first step in learning to slow down, and it’s been transformative for my stress levels.
Slowing down and taking the time to breathe have become one of the most vital practices for myself and my clients. We tell ourselves to hurry up so we can get more done. But slowing down and taking time for self-care can actually create More energy and vitality. Also, by embracing a slower pace, we enhance our own well-being and inspire others to do the same.
So what can I do for myself today to relieve this pressure I’m feeling? And fill my self-care bucket? I realize that I can ask my first client to move a little later so that I feel less worried about getting to work on time.
What is one thing you can do to fill your own self-care bucket? Slow down a little?
Can you give yourself 5 minutes of padding in your schedule? Or maybe just take a few mindful breaths while you’re waiting in line at the grocery store.
If you need support on your Self-Compassion journey you can contact me at eatingwithselflove.com. Email efthomasma@gmail.com or by phone 707-206-8698 I offer courses and individual coaching.
Love and Light,
Erica
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