Dyspraxia and Anorexia: What’s the Connection?
My journey to diagnosis for anorexia started when I was 20. I’d had enough of feeling the way I did and being controlled by emotion and intrusive thoughts. During this time, we discovered it had started at 10 years old due to issues at school and weight-related family traits. I was referred for cognitive behavioural […]
6 Ways to Enjoy a No-Pressure Valentine’s Day (Regardless of Your Relationship Status!)
Valentine’s Day can be difficult as it emphasizes the “special someone” in your life. There are set expectations of roses, chocolates, and candle-lit dinners but here are some ways to reclaim the day and make it about the most special someone in your life—you. 1. Treat yourself to something special! Cupcakes? Tulips? A new bathbomb? […]
Love Heals: Eating Disorder Recovery Gave Me My New Best Friend
When I entered residential treatment at age 21, I did not believe I deserved love. I had struggled with an eating disorder for almost a decade at that point and was tired, depressed, and frustrated. I didn’t re-admit to treatment with the hopes of recovery necessarily. I didn’t want to continue living in the hell […]
How I’m Using My Love of Art to Promote Body Positivity
Ask people what they see in an abstract piece of art, and chances are they won’t say the same thing. Every individual shape is a unique interpretation, and this different experience for every viewer is a communication channel between the artist’s ideas and the viewer’s thoughts. I draw parallels between this integral aspect of art […]
Looks Matter, But They Don’t Define Who We Are
I am six years old, staring at the mirror, knowing there’s a difference between pretty and ugly. I know who’s “pretty” and who’s “ugly;” even my six year old self, learning to write e’s and j’s, to paint rainbows with my fingers, knew the difference. My starry-eyed child’s thoughts were clouded with this message, and […]
The Challenges of Eating Disorder Recovery in a Higher-Weight Body
From a young age I was taught to believe that thinner equaled better, and larger equaled lesser. My dance teachers reinforced this, my father reinforced this, and the media reinforced this. Eating disorders are typically associated with thinness, and while that can be some people’s experience, it is not everyone’s. Those of us who may […]
When You Don’t Fit the “Eating Disorder Mold” As an African American
The first time I heard about eating disorders, I was in middle school. Our health class watched a film on the dangers of extreme dieting, and the implications it could have on mental and physical health. I watched intently as the film portrayed the typical narrative of a middle-class Caucasian girl who was on a […]
Throwing Away My Scale Was the Best Decision I’ve Ever Made
I want to begin by introducing you to my ex best friend, the scale. During my struggle with an eating disorder, the feeling of being alone was masked by my new companion, someone who would never lie to me—or so I thought. I spent morning, noon, and night checking in with my best friend. If […]
8 Body-Positive Black Role Models to Follow on Instagram Right Now
In honor of Black History Month, we are applauding some of the incredible members of the Black community who spread positivity one Instagram post at a time. Their messages of hope and love are inspirational to all people, regardless of skin color. Kellie Brown (@itsmekellieb) Kellie uses her voice to to spread messages of love, […]
7 Black Celebrities, Authors, and Athletes Who Are Shaping Our Conversations About Bodies
The beginning of February also marks the beginning of Black History Month, a time to remember pivotal events and people that helped shape the Black community. The countless accomplishments of the community would not have been possible without the unwavering efforts of many persistent and courageous individuals. Here are some examples of Black community members […]
