Chapter 10: Please Hold, The Refrigerator is Calling
Watch now (14 mins) | Today, let's delve into an exciting topic that touches all our hearts - the victories that each one of us has achieved. You know the ones - those victories over challenges, big or small, that make us feel like champions. In fact, let's spotlight a collective victory that I want to celebrate with all our listeners who've completed Dear Food I Love You I Hate You Don't Leave Me Workbooks 1 and 2.
Chapter 6: If Recreational Eating was an Olympic Event, I'd be a Gold Medalist
Now, let's dive into the heart of today's episode, exploring Chapter six in Workbook two titled, "If Recreational Eating was an Olympic Event, I'd be a Gold Medalist." This chapter, presented in the yellow workbook, delves into the delightful but often harmful relationship we can have with food as a hobby.
Chapter 7: I Said I'm Fine. (Now Where Did I Hide The Chocolate?)
Welcome to another enriching episode of the Dear Food Podcast with your compassionate guide, Julia Fikse. In this chapter, we delve into the profound connection between food, emotions, and spirituality, exploring practical tips and expert insights to break free from the stronghold of food-related struggles. Join Julia in today's exploration of Chapter 7 from Workbook 2, titled "I Said I'm Fine," where we unravel the complexities of worry and its antidote – gratitude.
The Vicious Cycle of Food Worries:
Julia begins by addressing a common struggle many of us face – the tendency to turn to food as a means of soothing worry and anxiety. As she humorously highlights through a daily calorie meme, the evening snack often becomes a refuge for worries that persist even after dinner. Julia candidly shares her own experiences and invites listeners to reflect on whether dieting, initially undertaken to alleviate stress about food, inadvertently contributes to an intensified worry cycle.
The Science of Unhealthy Eating and Anxiety:
A fascinating revelation emerges as Julia explores the science behind anxiety and unhealthy eating. The gut, a significant contributor to serotonin production, plays a pivotal role in influencing mood and gastrointestinal activity. Consuming processed foods and sugar suppresses serotonin creation, leading to heightened feelings of anxiety. Chronic stress further elevates cortisol production, impacting overall health negatively.
Gratitude as a Transformative Power Tool:
Enter the power tool of this episode – gratitude. Julia draws attention to the biblical wisdom found in Philippians 4:6-7, presenting four steps to combat worry: don't worry, ask for help with thanksgiving, wait for peace, and trust in God. The transformative potential of gratitude is highlighted as a practice that shifts focus from lack to abundance, fostering joy and faith.
Connecting with God in Worry:
Julia brings a spiritual perspective into the narrative, emphasizing the importance of turning to God during moments of worry. The comforting words of Philippians 4:6-7 are revisited, offering a practical guide to managing worries without resorting to unhealthy food.
Embracing Gratitude as a Lifestyle Change:
The blog post encourages readers to integrate gratitude into their daily lives, suggesting a gratitude journal as a tangible tool. By writing down three things to be thankful for in the morning and evening, individuals can cultivate a habit that gradually transforms their mindset.
Reflection and Prayer:
Julia concludes with a heartfelt prayer, urging listeners to embrace the four steps from Philippians 4:6-7, and trust in God's provision. She invites readers to delve deeper into the topic through the corresponding workbook, offering questions for reflection, prayer prompts, and additional resources.
Join the Food Freedom Journey:
The epiosde concludes by inviting readers to celebrate their daily efforts toward health, wellness, joy, and the journey to food freedom. Julia suggests finding a beautiful journal for gratitude lists and emphasizes the profound love and support available through faith.
For more resources, visit Julia’s Website and sign up for our newsletter. Join the Dear Food Community and share your journey to food freedom on our Facebook page, "Dear Food Study." Let's break food strongholds together!
Julia Fikse, FMCHC, NBC-HWC is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, specializing in Emotional Eating as well as Mental Health and Weight Loss. Julia has personally experienced the frustration of weight gain, weight loss, weight related health issues and emotional eating challenges. Julia is not a therapist or a doctor and this should not in any way replace doctor’s advice.
Share this post