Emotional Eating Masterclass

Sometimes emotional eating is obvious and intentional, sometimes it’s unconscious. Sometimes what you think is emotional eating is not, and sometimes what you don’t think is emotional eating is exactly that. Once you’ve discovered what it is and isn’t, we’ll cover what it takes to be successful and satisfied with your bariatric surgery, using the framework of Katie Jay’s book, Weight Loss Surgery Stages of Transformation.

Consider Your Values; and Identify Your Mental, Emotional, psychological, and Social Needs.

Human beings tend to reach their goals more easily if the journey to those goals brings some pleasure and meaning into their lives. What brings you pleasure is based on what you value and what your deepest needs are. We’ll do an activity to help identify values and needs, so that you have more self-awareness as you go through the program.

Learn and Practice the Art of Being Present and Understand How it Can Heal You.

Some people are reluctant to practice mindfulness because they can’t see the benefits. They may be uncomfortable with self-awareness because self-awareness leads to risk and change. It allows people to see more clearly:  themselves, their thoughts, their behaviors, and their relationships. Others feel awkward and don’t know what a mindful, intentional life really looks like or how they can work it into their schedule. Learning to be present in your life, for yourself, is a process. We’ll practice being present by taking it in small doses and getting enough of the right kind of support.

Develop a Kinder Way of Talking to Yourself and Others Using Nonviolent Communication.

The skill of nonviolent communication is a compassionate way of interacting with yourself and others in an environment of nonjudgment. After bariatric surgery, many of us struggle to be aware, kind, and connected with ourselves. We also have challenges in relationships, which may or may not support us as we transform physically, mentally, emotionally, and in our relationships. Some simple skills can be learned and practiced first to help you develop a more empathetic and caring relationship with yourself; and then to create more peace, support, and joy in your relationships with others.

Set Your Priorities and Sort Out What’s Yours to Change or Accept (and What’s not!).

Some bariatric surgery women have suffered a life of victimization and discouragement. We can develop false beliefs, such as “My needs aren’t as important as yours,” “I’m only lovable if I’m thin,” and “I can’t change.” A distorted view of yourself and your capabilities can make healing hard to come by. A process of identifying self-harming beliefs, becoming willing to risk putting your needs first, and letting go of what isn’t yours to control is critical to bariatric surgery mastery and satisfaction.

Use Boundary Setting and Compassionate Communication to Create an Environment that Supports Your Success.

You can change all you want, but if you’re living in an environment that encourages you, or tempts you, to “change back,” you’ll continue to struggle and feel discouraged. Boundary setting is an essential skill for long-term bariatric surgery success. We’ll learn about why boundaries are so important and practice how to set them using role playing. We’ll also discuss self-sabotage, and the secrets to maintaining the positive changes you make.

Put Together a Plan of Action that Incorporates Self-Awareness, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care; and Adopt an Attitude of Persistence.

Sometimes a program like this can bring about change, like a seed beginning to sprout. While we know intellectually how to keep our growth going, a specific plan to continue to grow is essential. We’ll discuss the definition of persistence and find out how to develop more resilience. We’ll also discuss resources available to help you continue the journey.

Hear a Brief Recap of What You’ve Learned; Share the Most Important Insights and Skills You’re Taking with You; Discuss How You’ll Move Forward with Confidence; and Ask Questions.

This eight-week journey may create a huge shift in your thinking and your life. A review of what we’ve covered will help reinforce your learning and continue your process. The insights you’ve gained and the skills you’ve learned will stay with you, and having identified them, you can continue your journey with clarity, confidence, and commitment. You may have lingering questions, so we’ll cover those, as well.