The most important thing to be aware of is the time of day when you use food for emotional comfort.
Trigger Zones
Stress experts tell us there are certain ‘trigger’ zones in a day such as running late for a meeting or work, or as soon as you come in from a tough day. Feeling lonely at night is another common one. If you identify with these patterns, spend 3-5 minutes, yes literally a few minutes, before the trigger zone to break the habit. This can mean a walk around the block, a quick trip to the loo to re-touch make up (and therefore feel better) or going for a shower. Chances are once you’ve taken that breather you are less likely to want the food.
Bling Up!
Another trick I often work with is that I ask clients to buy themselves a visible piece of jewellery, be it a ring or a bracelet, that they put on and wear with the intention to remind themselves during busy days what their purpose or goal is. If you feel the need to eat, take a look at your new bracelet to remind yourself of your goal. You'll effectively think twice about reaching for the chocolate. It sounds silly but it can work – and is a good excuse for some bling!
Reward Yourself
Figure out how you can give yourself a non-food reward. What can take the place of the snack? If you are at home, try painting your nails, or taking a bath when you abstain from your snack. This will be extremely helpful in breaking the trigger zone habit, as above, but also reinforcing the positive feeling of not snacking. Figure out what will work for you.
Check out more tips from Amanda Hamilton
