A Gentle Reset for the End of January
Can you believe it’s almost February? Same. If you’re noticing a heaviness around you, we invite you to take an intentional breath if that feels helpful. There’s a lot of chaos in January, especially in the wellness space which is inundated on most forms of social media. When you’re in eating disorder recovery, the “new year, new you” messaging can have a detrimental effect. We want to help you recognize that what you’re feeling is completely normal, and to help you focus on yourself. Let’s reflect on your wins, whether big or small, loud or quiet. Think there aren’t any wins? Without judgment, let’s acknowledge how motivation is often low in the winter, and that’s okay. Sometimes we need an organic slowdown, and it’s not a step backwards, but rather a chance to reassess and prepare. Be sure to read through to the end for some simple journaling prompts (if that’s your thing- don’t force it if it’s not!) Read on and find your wins for the rest of the year.
It might feel like a hot take, but we’re not big into rigid resolutions (read why in this blog post). Traditional resolutions tend to be rigid and restrictive, which is what we’re trying to avoid in eating disorder recovery. But resolutions are all around you, and that noise can feel really loud, even if you’re opting for a more gentle approach or not participating. Let’s accept that without judgment. If January felt hard to get through, know that you are not alone in that feeling. And, you did it. No matter how hard it felt, you made it through.
Remember when being busy was a sign that you were a boss? That doesn’t work for us anymore. And we’re not alone. So many celebrities are vocal about the importance of sleep and downtime. Rest is in, and sometimes an easing of progress can be exactly what you need in your recovery journey. Eating disorder recovery is not linear. Rest is an important thing, and it’s not a step backwards. It’s a pause for acceptance, which is a crucial skill to develop and hone (and it will get easier the more you practice it!)
January comes in with rules, motivation, and maximizing everything. What if you opted out of that moving forward? Just because it’s a new month, doesn’t mean you need to have new food rules or motivation. You can just be exactly where you are, and you are on the path of recovery. If people around you are talking about their resolutions and getting back to it in February, or continuing their motivations, don’t feel like you need to join. Stick with what works for you, lean on your support team, and recognize what a win it is to just continue as the incredible you.
Eating disorder recovery is hard. Eating disorder recovery feels impossible when everyone around you seems to be focusing on their weight, body, or adding protein to their meals. Take another deep breath with us, and acknowledge how hard January was. You don’t need to reset for a new month. Just being is exactly what you need to do right now.
That being said, if you like to journal and want to reflect on what January was for you, here are some gentle journaling prompts:
What are a few of my wins from this month?
What felt hard this month?
What do I want to continue to do next month?
What’s bringing me joy right now?
What is one feeling, intention, or value I want to carry forward?
What would nourishment look like for me this month (emotionally, physically, and/or mentally)?
You don’t need a fresh start this year or this month or ever. You need kindness and self-compassion, and we’re here to help. If you’re interested in learning more about us or working with one of our eating disorder registered dietitians, reach out to us today.