Carolyn Costin on Finding Meaning in Recovery from Disordered Eating
In a way it's almost like in psychosynthesis: we call it will before consciousness, and that kind of sounds like what happened to you: something's pulling you towards something without you even knowing about it.
What does it take to truly recover from an eating disorder? In this episode of 'Soul Sessions with Jodie Gale', renowned eating disorder therapist Carolyn Costin opens up about her personal journey to recovery and the profound insights she has gathered along the way.
Carolyn, who founded the Carolyn Costin Institute, shares how she integrates spirituality into her approach to healing, emphasizing the importance of connecting with one's soul-self for long-term recovery from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and other food-related issues. Carolyn discusses her groundbreaking book, '8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder', and explains the pivotal role that meaning and purpose play in the healing process.
She delves into the distinctions between ego and soul, advocating for a balanced relationship with one's ego rather than attempting to eliminate it entirely. According to Carolyn, nature's awe-inspiring beauty and moments of stillness can be powerful tools for reconnecting with the body and mind. In her conversation with Jodie, Carolyn also highlights the significance of breathwork and rhythmic movement in fostering a deeper connection with the body.
She encourages simple practices like taking a moment to breathe deeply or marvel at a sunset to ground oneself in the present moment. Dreams and creativity emerge as vital components of recovery, offering insights into the unconscious mind. Carolyn believes that personal recovery experiences can be both an asset and a challenge when coaching others, which is why her institute focuses on rigorous training for eating disorder coaches.
The episode also touches on the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, urging coaches to maintain human connections despite the physical distancing. Through this soulful conversation, listeners are invited to explore the multifaceted journey of healing from disordered eating, blending science with spirituality and practical wisdom.