Everyone I have talked to lately is complaining about Covid 19 weight gain, including me! Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, chaos, fear, panic, anger and frustration can trigger changes in mood, eating habits and metabolism.
People tell me that they have experienced at least one and often several of these emotions in the last 5 months. Our social activities, daily routines, jobs, family schedules, and mobility have all been turned upside down!
Individuals can have different responses to these emotions.
- Some ignore their hunger. Don’t notice they need energy. They go for days without eating.
- Others over-eat to numb their feelings with carb loading.
- Many might try to fill up a feeling of emptiness inside by stuffing food in their mouth.
- Some feel so out of touch with themselves they can’t figure out how to eat a sensible meal.
- A few too many gorge on sugary sweets.
- Some people are bingeing. Usually carbohydrates or sugar (which is a sub class of carbohydrates)
What are some stress busting techniques?
- Notice your trigger emotions. Have a plan to use before you reach for the fast food!
- Go for a walk. Nature is very calming. Be aware of sounds. What do you hear? Feel? Smell?
- Distract yourself with a hobby or task to stop thinking about the stressful events.
- Substitute healthier choices for the binge foods. Eat by the clock to stabilize metabolism.
- Stop being anxious about the past and worrying about the future. Enjoy each day.
- Practice the attitude if gratitude daily.
I believe this planetary reboot is all about slowing down, turning inward, re-evaluating what
is really important to us and becoming a better version of ourselves. Are you game?
