Recovery Day

What do I mean by "recovery day"? Most often for me it is the day after a day (or more) of binging. It can also be a day after a particularly depressed, unproductive day, or really any day that I don't get things done and need to get back on track. A recovery day is really a day to be nice to yourself -- push yourself to get back on track, yes, but in a self-caring way. 

Tips for a Recovery Day

1.) Forgive yourself: how can you move forward with the weight of yesterday still dragging behind you?

2.) Keep breathing and take it slow: No need to rush. Don't pressure yourself. Think through your decisions, will they make you happy?

3.) Drink lots of water: It will fill you up, flush your system, clear your skin, and make you feel all over healthier.

4.) Drink tea: At least for me, tea makes me slow down and in my mind it's a healthy thing to do, so my other actions follow suit.

5.) Compromise: So your body confused about the lack of sugar thus far after a few days of over dosing? Instead of getting a chocolate chip cookie with your coffee, get a mocha or hot chocolate. 

6.) On that note, don't be too harsh on yourself: You're doing better than yesterday. You're winning. You're getting back in control. It's okay!

6.) Be physical: Go for a walk, do some sit-ups, stretch, do yoga, clean your room, anything to get your body moving. You'll feel better.

7.) Listen to music: It'll keep your mind off things and give you a soundtrack as your go about your day. Awesome.

8.) Accomplish something: Homework assignment, personal goal, or whatever it may be, push yourself to accomplish something.

9.) Don't compare yourself now to your past self: You are where you are and so work from there. Don't beat yourself up and wish you were as you were pre-binge. Relax. You'll get there.

10.) Enjoy something: What do you like? Make sure you do something nice :)

11.) Dress for it: Dress well, put effort into yourself, but be smart. If wearing tight jeans will trigger you all day -- don't do it!

12.) Know it will get better: Push yourself to do a task here, say no to a cookie there, and you will slowly conquer your demons.