≡ Menu

What is a Symbolic Substitute? How we use food and dieting to fill our needs.

The saying goes, “you can’t always get what you want, but sometimes you get what you need.”

And though I often agree with this, I’ve also seen time and time again that when we don’t get what we want, we often reach for the closest thing to fill its space.

In the world of Eating Psychology, we call this reaching for a Symbolic Substitute.
Simply put, it’s the thing we reach for in place of the thing we really want, need, and often believe is unavailable to us.

The thing is, it makes total sense…yet can often keep us from what we truly desire.

Understanding how Symbolic Substitutes work can help us create greater peace and pleasure with food and our bodies.

In today’s video, I give you a deeper understanding of Symbolic Substitutes, the connection they have with food and dieting, and what you can do to get what you REALLY want and need.

I would love to know your thoughts. In the comments below, let me know how Symbolic Substitutes have effected you and what you can do now with these new insights.

With love,
Anita

0 comments…read them below or… add one