Coping Mechanisms

I was inspired to write this blog because of a journaling prompt found in the Flat Belly Diet book. For today, we were asked to list 5 non-food indulgences to help us cope when we're feeling like we want to turn to food when we're not truly hungry. As I thought about it, I realized how important it is for all of us to reflect and develop a non-food indulgences list. So many of us don't take time to pamper and take care of ourselves, unless it's with food, because that's "allowable". We've been conditioned to believe that we're not supposed to take time off from our responsibilities unless it serves some necessary, vital purpose.

Today, take a few minutes to think about how you would nurture or reward yourself if you could not turn to food. Would you take a short walk outside and get fresh air? Read a chapter of a book you've been dying to start? Watch your favorite TV show or sitcom? Talk to a friend?

To help you begin brainstorming, I'll share my list with you:
1. Play the piano.
2. Watch a design program on HGTV.
3. Plan a vacation (a.k.a. look at pretty places online that I'd love to visit).
4. Take some alone time.
5. Call Craig (my boyfriend).

As you can see, they don't have to be extravagant or expensive. They just have to be something that will feed your soul, instead of fill your stomach.

Happy indulging!

For more information about Cailen Ascher Design or my upcoming book, Well-Designed Living, visit www.CailenAscher.bravehost.com or email CailenAscher@gmail.com.