Yoga: An Eating Disorder Recovery Tool

Yoga: An Eating Disorder Recovery Tool

Yoga is a culture in its own right, and one that has various applications. While some people use it as a means to change their body, others use it as a mode of healing emotionally and mentally. Why is yoga so powerful and how can it be used in eating disorder recovery?

  • Yoga puts emphasis on the breath, which connects to our nervous system. Yoga teaches proper breathing technique as an essential part of each motion. Breathing “from the belly” deepens the breath, which signals the nervous system to shift from “fight or flight” mode to the “rest and digest” mode. In this state, the parasympathetic nervous system activates, the heart rate slows, and stress hormones decline.

  • Yoga facilitates a deeper connection to the body. Eating disorders create a profound disconnection from the body. Sufferers often distrust their own bodies, or even feel as though they are at war with it. Yoga teaches people to fully inhabit their body as they move through each pose. The body is seen as an ally, not an enemy.

  • Research shows that yoga is an effective intervention for mental health issues and trauma. Trauma increases the likelihood of developing an eating disorder. It’s essential to address any co-occurring traumatic stress for someone with an ED. If you are seeking this type of yoga class, search for “trauma sensitive” or “trauma informed” yoga, which emphasizes self-regulation and gentle movements. “Restorative yoga” is also a good option to look for. Outdoor classes can be ideal for those with body-image distress, as there are no mirrors to be distracted by.

  • Yoga is inherently grounding. In a nutshell, to be grounded is to be present, and you can’t practice yoga without being present. Emphasis is put on focusing on the moment, feeling your movements, and being with your body instead of absent from it. This allows those with anxiety or depression to step out of their thoughts for the session and have a break.

    Eating disorder and mental-health treatment centers are offering yoga more and more as a tool for emotional healing. If you or a loved one are struggling with disordered eating, you don’t have to suffer alone. There is professional help available. An admissions counselor can help you determine the appropriate level of care for you or your loved one.

 

Contributed by Carina Pearson, MA , Eating Disorder IOP Counselor at Focus Treatment Centers, Chattanooga, TN

Citations

Samuels, K. L., PhD. (2018, November 15). So You’re Ready to Add Yoga to Your Eating Disorders Recovery Plan?National Eating Disorders Association. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/blog/so-you%E2%80%99re-ready-add-yoga-yo ur-eating-disorders-recovery-plan

 

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