January's Theme: THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PAUSE

First of all, I want to thank all alumni in attendance and all current residents for such a warm welcome to my first Alumni Support Group. I hope that as I get to know each of you, that you will feel comfortable giving me feedback, asking for my support, and letting me know what you need from me stylistically as far as the process of the group is concerned. I left feeling lucky to witness the honest and open sharing and support you provided.

One recurrant theme brought up by several in attendance was "What am I going to do next?". I was getting a general "looking forward" sense from most. This feels like an appropriate and maybe universally shared question, especially right after the chaos of the holidays and the start of the new year. As we each look within ourselves to figure out what we are going to do next, remember to pause. Pause and check-in with yourself to make sure that you're not making your plans based on "shoulds". The pauses needn't be long, but the more frequently we stop, scan and tune ourselves toward a more balanced state, the more we will be able to bring greater flow, sensitivity, wisdom, and care into the moments that follow.

Another thought that was brought up was the question of "What do I replace my Eating Disorder with as I recover?" One alum had a great recommendation. She has a basket with tiny slips of paper in it. On each slip is an alternate activity to engaging in ED behaviors that she enjoys. She selects one at random, and if she REALLY doesn't want to do it, she can select another one, but she goes ahead and does it. This short-circuits the ED chain reaction, and helps her get her mind and body engaged in an enjoyable activity. This discusion led into a discussion about the search for meaning. Great philosopher's have dedicated their lives to figuring out what the meaning of life is, leaving behind many different theories. Here is another opportunity to pause. To pause and sit in the "not knowing", in the discomfort, in the antsiness or emptiness that can trigger us. Within this pause is an enormous opportunity to harvest insights and apply them.

Over the next few weeks if you find yourself swept away with making plans, balancing alternate possibilities, or searching for something to quell antsiness, emptiness or other intense emotions, start by taking a moment to pause.

A quick reminder of FREE opportunities to connect with support groups in the Asheville area:

Monday nights: EDA at the Jefferson House next to the UU Church in Asheville 6-7pm (14 Edwin Place)
Tuesday nights: Yoga for Revitalization at THE Center (297 Haywood St.; sliding scale $5-$10)
Wednesday nights: Adult Support Group at THE Center 7-8pm

I look forward to seeing everyone again at the next Alumni Support Group, Sunday February 1, 4:00 - 5:30 pm

Lauren