WRITE FOR US | EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS SUBMISSIONS
June 28, 2017
Every year the Yoga and Body Image Coalition is honored to partner with the National Eating Disorder Association for National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, which takes place this year from February 22nd through February 28th. This year’s theme is Every Body Has a Seat at the Table. “In a field where marginalized communities continue to be underrepresented, we welcome conversations on raising awareness, challenging systemic biases and sharing stories from all backgrounds and experiences.”
Please join us as we support NEDA’s ongoing efforts to continue to the conversation about eating disorders and prioritize inclusivity by sharing your story about what you have learned through your healing journey with an eating disorder, disordered eating, body acceptance, and how your yoga practice has helped you to heal. All individuals are included, all of our stories are valid, and we want you to speak out and share your experiences.
If you would like to contribute to this special blog feature for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, please submit your story today.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, know that you are not alone and that there is help. For more information and resources, you can call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 1-800-931-2237.
When I was deep in my sickness, I found that exercise was a way to cope with all the things in my life I wanted to escape from. It was a form of punishment. I worked out because I hated myself, not because I was at peace. While exercising, I found myself looking at others for “inspiration,” or goals, envious of their achievements with their bodies. Over time, I have come to realize that exercise, meditation, and yoga are not for anyone else but myself, and in order to these tasks successfully, I must be mindful and full of self-love. I now work out because I love myself, not because I need to punish myself, and I must do it for my mind more so than my body. Yoga has helped me find a way to become less focused on how I look and more focused on how I feel. It gives me a space to let go of all the emotional baggage I carry through my day and through my week and leave it on the mat. If I continue to let go of judgements, attachments, and hatred towards myself and others, and allow room for self-love, I will be able to continue to work towards living a healthy life in recovery.