If you are having an awesome day or you crushed a hard workout, your perception of your body may be really good. You don't worry about what you eat and you carry on with your day with positivity and confidence.
But if you are stressed and anxious, you made a mistake, had a bad workout/race or someone said something to you that made you feel less worthy, your self-image may become negative - which makes you feel fat.
Additionally, during moments of high stress and anxiety, a preoccupation with your body is not uncommon. When things/life feel out of control, you may direct your focus to food and exercise as a coping mechanism.
The next time you experience a "I feel fat" thought, give yourself space to get to the root of what triggered this misinterpreted feeling.
As a reminder, diet culture has taught you how to use food to gain a feeling of control. Tightly controlling your diet with rules and an off-limit food list is a simple solution to deal with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem or fear of failure. Turning to food to feel control over your body may seem like the only way to deal with uncomfortable emotions but it doesn't have to be this way.
It’s important to recognize that feeling “fat” has nothing to do with your body and everything to do with your feelings.
It's time to crush those negative thoughts. Your body isn't a problem. Do not belittle yourself with insults. Your body is amazing.
