Emotional eating can happen for a number of reasons.  Sometimes, it is simple boredom that leads to emotional eating.  Other times it can be related to stress or some other overwhelming emotion.  No matter what the cause of the emotional eating it is a dangerous habit to employ.  The following are just a few emotional eating alternatives.

Exercise

Exercise is a great emotional eating alternative.  Just a little exercise can increase your overall health and your sense of well-being.  It also causes a release of endorphins which are the brain’s feel good neurotransmitters.  This release of endorphins ultimately makes you feel better.

Try something artistic or creative

Drawing, painting, etc.  You don’t have be an artist or invest a fortune in supplies.  Just a simple splat of paint onto a canvas can be very satisfying.

Write

Writing is one of the simplest forms of expression.  This is an excellent emotional eating alternative because it allows you to express your feelings and work through.

Talk to a friend

Simply sharing your emotions or taking the time to vent about your day can have a beneficial impact on your mood.

Give Yourself a Massage

Intentionally massaging tense areas can ease the tension but it will also release chemicals in your body that will help you feel better.

Drink some Tea

Black tea can reduce your cortisol levels which will reduce your cravings and help to ease your stress.

Chew

Try chewing on a piece of gum or a straw.  Studies have shown that chewing on something before you eat will significantly reduce your appetite.

Go for a Walk

Replace emotional eating with going for a walk.  This will help to alleviate boredom eating but it can also help to relax any tension or stress you may be feeling.

Distract yourself

Work on a hobby or clean your house.  Anything that will distract yourself and help you to feel productive will create a positive energy.

Breathe

As simple as it sounds, taking a few deep breaths can help your mind and body to relax.  One great technique is to breath in for four counts, hold the breath for four counts, and then exhale for four counts.  This will effectively slow your breathing and trick your body into relaxing.

These simple emotional eating alternatives can help you relax and refocus.  To schedule your free consultation please click below or call (212) 759-8118.