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The Role of Yoga in Eating Disorder Treatment

Many people often associate stretching with yoga but it is much deeper than that. Yoga practices, which initially originated in ancient India, and work to control and calm the mind.


How can yoga help with movement?

If you or a loved one have struggled with over exercising and are trying to build a healthy relationship with movement, yoga can be a great choice for you. Not only does it promote a bond between breathing and motion, but it also often serves as a relaxing, meditative state for many who practice to disconnect from the struggles of their day to day life and relax.


How to start yoga?

When polled via instagram, the majority of eating recoveries followers said they did not regularly practice yoga, so how can someone begin this practice either for fun or an activity to use as a supportive skill in recovery? A beginning step that is recommended by various sources, is realizing expectations. Don't expect to be able to master all the poses within the first day, it can take time just to learn to touch your toes. Another important aspect when beginning yoga is paying attention to your breathing and connecting it to your movements. Finally, whether you visit a yoga studio near you or look up on YouTube, "Yoga for beginners" try your best to fully immerse yourself in the new experience and enjoy it!


Why use yoga in eating disorder recovery?

Yoga can help those with eating disorders to:

  • Be present

  • Slowing the chatter of the mind by refocusing on breathing

  • Sit with discomfort

  • Process difficult emotions

  • Experience a spiritual release of emotion


Going forward consider implementing yoga into your routine and see if you feel a change in mindset as you work through recovery. In addition, consider finding a yoga buddy to practice with and insure you can mindfully perform the exercises. As always, check in with your team or supports to be sure it is safe for you to begin yoga and enjoy!


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