Yoga and Eating Disorders

Image taken from acefitness.org

I realize that there is no such thing as a perfect body; however, this is something I constantly strive for and I will admit I went about it in unhealthy ways in my past.


I know it. I see it. I have friends who don't have an eating disorder per se, but they totter in between healthy and unhealthy habits. They are obsessed with being skinny and looking perfect; and I am the same way too and it is something that I will always struggle with. Sadly, I feel like most women struggle with this. 


I hate the term "eating disorder," because its used so frequently it all most seems fashionable. How many magazine covers have you seen with: "My struggle with my eating disorder," or "living with an eating disorder?"So many celebrities supposedly have an eating disorder than it seems like a cry for attention or publicity--not to be insensitive. 


I think over eating and under eating is still an eating disorder; but how many women who are gorgeous suffer from what I call an image disorder. 


Eating/Image disorders stem from OCD, so its been said. Which is why I think women who are obsessed with perfection are obsessed with working out. 


Personally, I have to work out. If I can't work out than I am a nightmare to be around both internally and externally. 


I know its arrogant to assume that I know what's best for people; but those other girls out there who have an eating/image disorder, I wish that I could give them the release and freedom I feel when I participate in my yoga classes. (not just any yoga, but hot yoga. I'm sure the excessive sweating is releasing all kinds of "positive ions" in my brain)

Yoga is my saving grace--to be dramatic. Any negative energy I have toward my body I can channel into Yoga. If I feel poorly about myself, than I work harder in my class (making my poses more advanced).  

I have always been insecure about my body, but I have gained so much confidence in myself from my yoga obsession. I can actually look in the mirror and appreciate what I see, because I am making an effort to create what I see looking back at me--in a healthy way.