I am deep into recovery. I am throwing myself into it. It is so hard. My anorexia is insidious and it is always ready to shout and take over my healthy side at any chance it gets. I am digging down deep to move towards full recovery.
Lately I have had urges to purge at night. Fortunately I know that a thought is just a thought and I don’t need to act on it, but even though I know this the impulses are strong. Here are some coping skills that I’ve used over the past few weeks:
- I delay the urge. I set a timer for five minutes and wait.
- I put on a Netflix comedy special to distract me.
- I go to bed (even if it’s early) to resist the impulse.
- I text family members and friends for reassurance.
- I do a “pros and cons” list in my head and focus on the consequences of purging. And I focus on the pleasant feeling I will have the next day if I do not purge.
- I use music to focus on other sensations in my body and to rock out to my favorite artists. A little Kelly Clarkson always helps.
- I do yoga to focus on my breath and slow my body down.
- I notice the urge and ride it like a wave until it passes.
What skill do you use? I would love to hear from you. You can contact me on my blog or email me at mereditheob@gmail.com
We can recover.
Serenity Always,
Meredith
Photo cred: @edrecoveryblog⠀
