November 2008 Archive
Binge Eating and Monkeys
11.25.08
Interesting! A study conducted at the Yerkes National Primate Research Center in Atlanta provides insight into the reinforcing nature of binge eating.
Researchers wanted to better understand the comforting function of binge eating. They compared eating patterns between “popular” and “unpopular” monkeys. At first, the less popular monkeys ate less. However, when monkey junk food (banana pellets) was introduced, the less popular monkeys ate significantly more than popular monkeys.
They ate banana pellets all day and throughout the night.
Why did this happen? Read More >
Mindfullness and Eating
11.18.08
So, how do you eat mindfully?
Now that we have talked about the process of mindfulness, let’s look at how it can apply to eating. For most of you on this site, food plays a big role in your life, stirring up a lot of emotions!
Eating in a mindful way can teach you to manage those feelings while beginning to enjoy food again.
How can you do this? Read More >
What is mindfulness? Why mindfullness?
11.11.08
The idea for this site preceded the name. I spent a lot of time searching for a name that would appropriately capture the messages and feelings I wanted to convey to you. Finally, I landed on mindfullness, inspired by the concept of mindfulness used in meditation. The spelling, note the second “L” in mindfullness, was inspired by my belief that you can live a full life. A life free from food, weight, and eating concerns, and nurtured by those things that fulfill you. This is my hope for you.
Mindfulness emphasizes the importance of being present in the “here and now.” It is a process of learning to pay attention to your emotions as they come and accepting them in a welcoming, nonjudgmental way. You can do this daily in a general sense, but also while eating! Imagine: approaching food as something to be enjoyed and tasted one bite at a time! Read More >
Welcome!
11.04.08
Welcome to Mindfullness!
I look forward to hearing from all of you, and engaging in exciting and ongoing dialogue about issues related to eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image.
The mission of Mindfullness is to provide a forum for those struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating. It is also a forum for those affected by a loved ones illness, or those interested in educating others about these issues. Read More >