Feeding the Hungry Heart

Abstract: A workshop called "Breaking Free" designed for overweight people (who tend to be compulsive eaters) is described. The workshop's goal is to help people who are uncomfortable with their bodies regardless of what weight loss efforts have been tried, succeeded or failed. Women, especially tend to associate overweight with self-degradation, failure, and ugliness because they are less able to separate the state of being fat from themselves (as individuals) as men seem to be able to do. The workshop's theme states that it is possible to like one's body (regardless of size) and eat without guilt. People are taught to deal with food and other aspects of life in a positive way (both physically and emotionally) so they can appreciate themselves as worthwhile individuals. Once people understand what makes them eat the way they do, they are better able to resolve their compulsive eating habits, avoid feelings of helplessness, loneliness, and frustration. (kbc).