Most of us would prepare for a severe storm if we knew it was coming.

Having lived through two Midwest winters, my perspective of storms has changed. If I knew a storm was imminent, I would stock up on food. I would ensure that I had candles, warm clothes, and chargers for my handheld devices. Knowing that a storm is coming provides the opportunity to prepare. It's intuitive for most of us. Interestingly, the emotional eating process and preventing restrictive feelings are remarkably similar, yet we rarely plan for storms of life regarding food and disordered eating.

When circumstances are ripe for temptation, are you prepared for them? Do you have a plan to keep you protected from the “storm” and on track to achieve long-term success through healthy living?

Most women who struggle with overeating or feeling restricted do so unnecessarily simply because they are attempting to suppress natural needs. They need a new storm plan.

During my recovery from binge eating, the Lord showed me that allowing myself to experience the feeling of wanting something solely for emotional reasons was crucial to my recovery. I felt the feeling of craving food for the first time without being frightened of it. Instead of trying to ignore it or struggling to "will it" away, I just felt it and prayed about it. It resulted in a great exhale, peace, and finally, freedom.

There was a time in my life when the feeling of craving certain foods would have caused me immense anxiety and fear. The thought of bingeing would have terrified me. I would have fought it. I would have forced myself to consider all the healthier options available. Initially, I might have tried to find something I deemed “healthier” or “better.” However, indefinitely, I would give in to eating the food I wanted in the first place. However, I would feel defeated, weak, guilty, and ashamed. And, since, in my mind, I’d already “blown it,” it would usually spiral out of control into a full-blown, tragic, and preventable binge.

Today, I give huge praise and glory to the Lord for shedding healing light on this struggle for me. Now, instead of the sad scene I just described, I enjoy the safety of my storm plan.

What do you do when you feel compelled to eat emotionally or feel restricted? Maybe certain life events cause you to feel restricted. Maybe it's date night? Maybe it's pizza night. Maybe it's hormonal? No matter what your personal "storm" looks like, having a plan for allowing food to be a healthy part of self-care is freeing for the mind and a blessing to the body. Consider these tips for finding peace and balance when considering your own temptations and struggles.

Don’t Get Too Hungry

It is essential not to feel starved and deprived when eating healthy. A sustainable eating plan should make you feel both physically and emotionally satisfied. If you are truly hungry, eat. If you wait too long to eat or try to endure habitual hunger, you are setting yourself up for failure. Be aware of your body's physical needs so you can understand what your hunger is telling you. Prepare snacks and meals and adjust the amount of food accordingly. There is no need to fear hunger. It usually only needs to be fed.

Savor Your Food

Be aware that your food is a gift from God, and thank Him. Take a moment to appreciate it. Notice your food. Take the time to breathe in the scent and just pause. I heard once that we should eat like a wine connoisseur tastes wine. If you notice that you are eating without tasting, take a moment to refocus and genuinely enjoy it.

Watch Your Words

It is important not to label foods good or bad. Our understanding of most foods is that there are no good and bad foods, only good and bad diets. We realize that we can still enjoy pizza or cake on occasion when we start thinking about food choices in this way, so all our healthy living goals don't go out the window when we treat ourselves to it. It’s important to understand that all foods are "allowed." Food cannot be considered bad by itself. Bad is a value that food simply does not deserve.

Honor What’s Most Important to You, But Be Picky

When you restrict yourself too much, you will always end up with unhealthy behaviors. Before eating, consider what you’re truly feeling. Choose specifically the food that you need to feel satisfied. Think about what matters most to you. You can choose those foods, and you don't have to eat them all. Enjoy your food, and know that you selected it intentionally.

Pray

Lastly, remember that all power and self-control come from the Holy Spirit. Fill yourself daily with bread that will never run out.

• Proverbs 21:5 “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
• Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
• Proverbs 24:27 “Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”
• Proverbs 16:9 “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”