Navigating Body Changes During Eating Disorder Recovery: How to Find Comfort, Support, and Self-Compassion
Navigating Body Changes During Eating Disorder Recovery: How to Find Comfort, Support, and Self-Compassion
Written by Lily Thrope
One of the most challenging and often overlooked parts of healing from an eating disorder or navigating chronic health issues is coping with body changes. Whether those changes are a result of recovery, aging, illness, or shifts in lifestyle, they can stir up complex emotions. Many people feel overwhelmed by the discomfort, grief, or frustration that comes with living in a body that no longer looks or feels familiar.
So how can we meet those body changes with grace instead of shame? How can we support ourselves through the discomfort without falling back into harmful patterns?
Let’s start with one simple truth: body changes are inevitable. They’re not failures, they’re part of being alive.
Honoring Change as a Natural Part of Life
Our bodies grow, evolve, and respond to what we’ve been through. Healing, trauma, stress, illness, joy, movement, rest, they all leave their mark. Instead of resisting change, I help clients shift their focus to honoring the body they are in today.
This often means digging into the core beliefs that get triggered when bodies change:
“If my body changes, I’ve lost control.”
“A bigger body means I’m failing.”
“I can only feel confident if I look a certain way.”
“I am not prioritizing my health if my body changes”
Together, we challenge those beliefs and replace them with more supportive truths, like the idea that health, worth, and identity are not determined by size or appearance.
The “Itchy Tag” Metaphor: A Practical Reframe
One of my favorite metaphors for navigating body changes is the “itchy tag” metaphor.
Imagine wearing a t-shirt with a scratchy tag you can’t cut off. You can’t remove it, but you can do something to make it more bearable. Maybe you wear a soft undershirt, change the fabric, or add something soothing underneath.
In terms of body image, this means finding ways to create comfort in your current body, rather than trying to change your body to escape the discomfort. This could look like:
Buying new clothes that feel soft, cozy, and supportive
Choosing movement that is gentle, joyful, and pressure-free
Getting a haircut or changing your environment to boost your mood
Eating meals with people who make you feel safe and accepted
These are acts of self-respect, not indulgence. This type of self-care can help you feel more comfort and safety in your body which can support a better relationship with yourself.
Health Support Without Weight Shame
For clients dealing with health challenges on top of body image distress, the struggle is often compounded by a medical system that prioritizes weight loss over well-being. One of the most empowering things you can do is advocate for weight-inclusive care and reject the weight centric medical model of health.
This means finding providers who understand that health is multifaceted and that weight is not the only (or best) indicator of well-being. Look for practitioners who use a Health at Every Size (HAES) or anti-diet approach.
You can also bring a support person to medical appointments or prepare a script to express your needs:
“I’m in recovery from disordered eating and would prefer not to focus on weight.”
“I’d like to explore other root causes of this issue that aren’t weight-related.”
Advocating for yourself may feel intimidating, but it’s a powerful step in reclaiming agency over your body and care.
Community Makes the Journey Easier
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of community. Sharing your experiences with others who understand, especially those also in recovery or dealing with health challenges, can help you feel seen and supported.
Community reminds you that you’re not alone in this. It offers perspective, accountability, and compassion when you’re struggling to find it for yourself.
Body changes can be uncomfortable, but they don’t have to derail your progress. By creating comfort where you are, challenging toxic beliefs, and seeking care that honors your humanity, not just your weight, you can move forward with more peace and confidence.
You deserve a relationship with your body that’s rooted in care, not control. And if you’re walking through this, know that you don’t have to do it alone.
If you are located in the NYC area, join us for Recovery Supper Club, where you are encouraged to take up space and be your full self. In-person community can be so healing and we can’t wait to meet you.
If you want to learn more about how to navigate body changes in recovery, consider speaking to a professional. Feel free to reach out to us at Thrope Therapy and schedule your free 15 minute consultation.You can email us with any questions or inquiries at hello@thropetherapy.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
