Throughout the day thoughts are constant whether conscious or unconscious the mind is always operating. The power of the words chosen to think is a choice. So many people do not realize the innate ability to control the data stored in his or her mind. So often someone will say something to us that reminds us of the past and immediately we feel how that particular incident felt and react accordingly. The person with whom we are currently engaged in a conversation with has no idea what they said or did that affected us and often times neither do we.

I propose that when a feeling comes up that doesn’t promote appositive thought that you say out loud or to yourself “cancel” or “no that is not the truth.” This may sound silly; however, it is very powerful it allows you to stop the negative tapes that are stored from continuing to play. Becoming aware of what we think and how it affects what we do is so powerful to an individual’s recovery from eating disorders. Conscious living is how he or she gets better. Recovery is a choice and the person wanting to recover from an eating disorder must change how they think and how they feel.

When I was taught that feelings aren’t facts and that just because a thought comes up doesn’t mean I have to respond to it I was amazed I had no idea that I had a choice. The beauty of recovering from eating disorders is to find out your not alone and what seemed to be impossible is now possible. What a gift to relinquish the false sense of control and power I had with my eating disorder, to today knowing I have power and choice over what I say and do, who I allow in my world, where I work, my family every area is filled with possibilities and choice.

I learned while in treatment that certain things had to change and my response over time would be different, that I had to trust other people might be right and that I might not have all the answers. I learned about me and what I like and don’t like, I no longer have to not feel to be okay. Eating disorder treatment allowed me to have a life I could never have dreamed of I wish this for you too.