Summary: Start to identify and corral damaging thoughts in order to shift the emotional, physical and behavioral responses they trigger.It's impossible for humans to capture each and every thought one has on a daily basis. However, you can start to identify and corral damaging thoughts in order to shift the emotional, physical and behavioral responses they trigger. This is the platform of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which Dana James, owner of Food Coach NYC, regularly uses in her practice. For example, you may know what you need to be eating, but your stress levels are out of control and you turn to unhealthy options. Certain situations can cause anxiety, such as going on a date with a new potential partner. Your thought may be, "What if he doesn't like me?" You become nervous, drink too much, are up late, and wake up tired and hungover. You skip your workout. Instead of making a good choice for breakfast, you grab a croissant. Now, think of how that situation could be different by going in to it saying, "Of course he's going to like me!" The first steps in making this cognitive shift include recognizing that those thoughts are "automatic;" common thoughts that come through without invitation. Also, look at your core beliefs. Identify where those beliefs came from. For example, your upbringing may have led you to believe that a woman's worth is based on her success or what she's able to achieve. Or, she is valued for her appearance. Once you understand the basis for your thoughts, you can start to work to change your emotional, physical and behavioral responses to be healthier. In addition to CBT, Dana also uses functional medicine to address bio-chemical imbalances in her clients. Listen in as Dana joins Dr. Taz to explain what CBT is and how you can use it to change your eating habits for the better.
