Finding Food Freedom
I moved to Austin this past June and one of my favorite ways to explore a new city is to immerse myself in the local food scene. I had heard great things about the food here in ATX, but WOW has it been an amazing adventure! As I’ve been trying lots of new restaurants and foods, I’ve been continually reminded of how much value food adds to our lives even beyond giving us nourishment.
Have you ever considered how food experiences give us so many incredible opportunities for connection? Think about how often our social events are centered around food. When we go on a date, meet up with friends, or enjoy time with family it often centers around a meal or coffee. There is something special about connecting with people over food and sharing that experience with another person.
Going further, food experiences provide us with so much joy and unique moments of fun. It’s exciting to try, experience, and enjoy new things. We have full permission to eat foods sometimes just for the sake of enjoyment.
But maybe one of my favorite aspects that food represents in our lives are the rich traditions and cultures they embody and represent. You may have memories as a child of having your favorite cake on your birthday, or even looking forward to turkey and mac and cheese on Thanksgiving. These are traditions that create positive experiences, moments, and memories for us. Food in all of its styles and cultural flavors is deeply connected to our culture, and enjoying it helps us to tap into our own culture, or to learn and experience the culture of others - all through food!
When we are entrapped by a strict diet or rigid eating disorder, it interferes with our quality of life by not allowing us to fully experience these benefits of food, and the joys that come with it. We may start missing out on formative social situations, or not engage in our favorite traditions all to avoid certain food situations. If you feel that you are struggling with finding freedom in food, don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule. We are here to help!