The Beautifully Badass Blog

While many body image therapists approach body image issues by focusing on changing our thoughts about our bodies through affirmations or cognitive restructuring, Reclaim’s body image therapists firmly believe that lasting healing requires something deeper: a return to the wisdom and experience of the body itself.

Since I was a young child, singing has been a natural expression of my being.

Something about singing along to songs on the radio, singing among others at concerts and in choirs, and just singing myself through my day offered solace. Singing allowed me to find my voice even when I felt silenced by the daily challenges of life.

While traditional talk therapy is great for understanding why you feel this way, sometimes you need something that speaks directly to your body's stress response, especially if you are someone who has experienced trauma.

That's where EMDR comes in.

In and out of the therapy room, self worth vs self confidence are frequently discussed concepts.

While often used interchangeably, these are two very different aspects of our self-perception that play important roles in our overall well-being.

Behind the smiles of some athletes who return home decorated with Olympic medals is a struggle that has overshadowed their quest for gold.

Olympic glory has come at the cost of their physical and mental health as they struggle with disordered eating and body image. In recent memory, more have spoken out about their struggles.

Many people who have experienced trauma struggle with fragmented memories, intense emotions, and physical sensations they can't explain. Understanding the sciencey, neurobiology of trauma, can provide insights into these experiences and start to clear a path for healing.

At its heart, food freedom is about breaking free from the chains of restrictive eating, saying goodbye to rigid food rules, and quieting that constant chatter in your head about what, when, and how much to eat.

In the age of social media and self-help gurus, we're constantly bombarded with messages telling us to "just be positive" or "good vibes only."

While positivity can be beneficial, there's a dark side to this relentless optimism - toxic positivity.

As eating disorder therapists, we’ve seen firsthand the very real impact that "What I Eat in a Day" videos can have on people's relationships with food and their body.

Here are 10 reasons why they're harmful.

“Nervous system regulation”, as a concept, is getting a lot of buzz these days, and for good reason!

Our nervous systems do so much for us. And when we’ve experienced trauma, they are deeply affected and carry us through life in unique ways thereafter.

Intergenerational trauma, also known as transgenerational trauma, is a phenomenon where the effects of traumatic experiences are passed down from one generation to the next.

The most common state of the human nervous system today is the freeze response.

This state can manifest on a spectrum, from a high-functioning freeze to a more collapsed, shut-down state.

Polyvagal Theory Explained Part 2

Neuroception: Detecting Signs of Safety and Danger in the Wake of Trauma 

Welcome to part II of “What Even is Nervous System Regulation Anyway?”. In my last blog post, I talked about the nervous system and why it’s gaining a lot of attention these days.

Recently I encountered that world at a Fourth of July barbeque. The topic of conversation among the women of the party?

Weight loss drugs.

Specifically, Wegovy.

Moving to college, whether as a freshman or returning student, comes with plenty of challenges and adjustments to make. One of those challenges that is often overlooked is switching from in-person therapy to online therapy sessions.

For loved ones of people struggling with eating disorders, providing the right support is crucial, yet can be very challenging.

This blog post hopes to equip you with the knowledge and tools to start to support your loved one through their recovery process.

Understanding the intricate connection between binge eating and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is crucial in your journey toward healing and recovery

What even is “nervous system regulation”? It’s a bit of a buzz-phrase these days, thanks to social media, which has its benefits and challenges.

While traditional therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been the cornerstone of treatment for many, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is gaining attention for its potential to address the traumatic roots of disordered eating.

Welcome to Horsham, PA, where weekends aren't just about unwinding but also about nurturing your journey towards eating disorder recovery. Engaging in activities that support your well-being and foster a positive relationship with food can make a significant difference in your healing process.

Every day, more people are seeking ways to heal from trauma.

While traditional talk therapies are well-known, there are other, sometimes less familiar approaches that are amazingly effective in the renegotiation of trauma. One such method is Somatic Experiencing (SE).

Navigating anxiety around eating can be incredibly challenging, but finding the right environment and support can make a significant difference.

In Horsham, PA, there's a wonderful array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re local or just passing through, this guide aims to help you make the most of your meals out, focusing on mindful eating and self-compassion.

Navigating through the complexities of an eating disorder often involves untangling a web of emotions, behaviors, and underlying traumas. At the heart of effective treatment lies a profound understanding of how trauma shapes one's relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. This approach, known as trauma-informed care, goes beyond symptom management to address the root causes and emotional landscapes that influence eating disorders.

Delving into the realm of eating disorders often reveals a deeper narrative shaped by childhood experiences and trauma. Many individuals on this journey toward healing uncover the profound impact of early-life adversities. Childhood trauma, whether through neglect, emotional abuse, or more overt forms of violence, leaves enduring marks on one's psyche, profoundly influencing one's relationship with food, body image, and self-esteem.

If you identify as an Adult Child of an Alcoholic and/or Addict, you might be wondering… so now what?

Could therapy help me? 

Understanding the link between trauma and disordered eating is crucial. Imagine trying to navigate the world while carrying the invisible weight of past wounds. For many, trauma isn't just an event; it’s a lingering ghost that understanding the link between trauma and disordered eating is crucial. Imagine trying to navigate the world while carrying the invisible weight of past wounds. For many, trauma isn't just an event; it’s a lingering ghost that haunts everyday life, making even the simplest of tasks feel insurmountable.

Emotional eating isn't just about filling your stomach; it's about seeking comfort in response to challenging emotions. You may find yourself reaching for snacks to combat feelings of loneliness or monotony, seeking solace in favorite treats after a taxing day, or indulging in food when life feels dull.

Binge eating at night is a challenge many people face.

This way of eating involves consuming a lot of food rapidly until you feel uncomfortable. Afterward, you may experience feelings of guilt and shame. It can become a cycle of behaviors that can feel hard to end or escape.

When we’ve experienced trauma, the wounds we carry run deep and wide and often impact our ability to be in a relationship.

Deep down we wonder why it’s so hard to form close bonds with others.

We struggle to trust anyone.