When I look back on my journey, it’s hard to believe how far I’ve come. It started out as a gradual shift in my thought patterns and behavior. I remember going places and constantly comparing my body size to others around me or looking at what I was eating and wishing it could be different.
I know now that these feelings and thoughts were signs of an unhealthy relationship with food and with myself. But it wasn’t until months later that I was able to acknowledge this and have the courage to seek help. It was a huge step for me to allow myself to accept the fact that something needed to change if I wanted a healthier life.
Recovery hasn’t always been easy, but it has been immensely meaningful. Learning how to nourish my body in healthy ways, being more gentle with myself, rediscovering interests outside of food-related topics, establishing meaningful self-care practices—all of these things together have made a huge impact on my well-being.
I’m far from perfect — some days are harder than others — but overall I have built up the strength and resilience needed to stay motivated on this path towards healthful living every day since then. Looking forward, I’m excited by all that lies ahead as I continue this journey of recovery from my eating disorder.