Episodes

  • EP 239.5:  From Trauma to Triumph ~ 6 Things Your Past Can Teach You **Must Listen Fav!**

    EP 239.5:  From Trauma to Triumph ~ 6 Things Your Past Can Teach You **Must Listen Fav!**
    Sep 16 2025
    In this powerful episode, Lindsey gets vulnerable about the connection between trauma and eating disorders, sharing why sometimes it's okay to look at our past to catapult us into our future. If you've experienced trauma and are wondering how it connects to your eating disorder, this episode will provide hope, healing insights, and practical steps forward. Discover the 6 essential things to remember about your past that can transform your recovery journey and help you move from survival to thriving. Note: This episode addresses sensitive topics around trauma. Lindsey emphasizes that as a recovery coach, she focuses on the here and now of recovery, while encouraging professional therapy support for trauma processing. Key Topics Covered: 💔 The trauma-eating disorder connection: Why 81% of people with eating disorders have experienced trauma 🧠 Understanding trauma types: Acute vs. chronic trauma and how it relates to ED development 🛡️ Eating disorders as coping mechanisms: How restriction becomes a false sense of control 🌅 6 powerful reminders about your past that can transform your recovery journey 🕊️ The role of forgiveness in healing and moving forward 💪 Why your deepest pain can become your greatest triumph Shocking Statistics Revealed: 📊 25% of those with eating disorders also meet criteria for PTSD 📊 81% of people with eating disorders had at least one traumatic experience 📊 68% experienced trauma before any eating disorder symptoms appeared These numbers show you're not alone and that the connection between trauma and eating disorders is real and valid. Common Traumas Associated with Eating Disorders: ⚡ Childhood abuse (physical, emotional, sexual) ⚡ Bullying or social ostracism ⚡ Body shaming and weight stigma ⚡ Loss and grief experiences ⚡ Accidents or medical trauma ⚡ Intergenerational or cultural traumatic events Remember: Trauma is subjective - what's traumatic for one person may not be for another, and that's completely valid. 6 Things to Remember About Your Past: 1. Your Past Doesn't Exist Anymore Healing isn't linear - good and bad days are normalSome days it may feel real, but it's no longer your current realityProgress includes setbacks, and that's part of the process 2. Your Past Doesn't Define You Your experiences shape you but don't determine your worthYou hold the power to grow, evolve, and changeOnly you have the key to become who you want to be 3. Your Past Can Only Serve as a Teacher All emotions about your past are validThere's no "right way" to feel about past experiencesWhat matters is what you do next with that knowledge 4. Your Past Doesn't Have to Block Your Future Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weaknessYou can reinvent and recreate yourselfNo matter how many times you've tried recovery, you can start again 5. Holding On May Lead to Reliving Your wound is not your fault, but your healing is your responsibilityMemories can be imperfect, especially trauma memoriesHolding on keeps you stuck in the struggle 6. Your Past Self Deserves Love and Forgiveness You did the best you could at the timeDon't judge your past self with current wisdomYou're not damaged or broken - you're worthy of healing Key Insights About Trauma and Eating Disorders: 🔍 Eating disorders as control: When the world feels chaotic, restricting food can feel like the one thing you can control 🔍 Numbing mechanism: ED behaviors often serve to numb overwhelming emotions from traumatic experiences 🔍 False sense of safety: The eating disorder creates an illusion of control and perfection 🔍 Survival strategy: You turned to these behaviors because you needed to survive in that moment Powerful Quotes from This Episode: 💭 "The deepest, hardest, darkest pain you've been through is most often what's going to catapult you into your highest, best, and truest version of yourself." 💭 "Your wound is not your fault, but your healing is most certainly your responsibility." 💭 "You do not need to judge your past self with your current wisdom." 💭 "You now know better, so you can now do better." 💭 "You aren't damaged. You're not broken. Nothing needs to be fixed, including your body." Important Reminders: ✨ Trauma-informed care is crucial for eating disorder recovery ✨ Professional therapy support is essential for processing trauma ✨ Recovery coaching focuses on the here and now, not digging up past trauma ✨ Forgiveness is part of the healing equation ✨ You're worthy of a life free from pain, regardless of your past Questions for Self-Reflection: 🤔 What am I holding onto and why? 🤔 What can be released from my past? 🤔 What needs to be forgiven? 🤔 How can my past serve as a teacher rather than a prison? 🤔 What version of myself am I ready to let go of? Ready for Support? Work with Lindsey: If you're ready for accountability, support, and freedom from your eating disorder, and you're done playing small, Lindsey would love to connect ...
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    17 mins
  • EP 239: "Am I Eating Too Much?" ~ Understanding Extreme Hunger (What's Really Happening in Your Body & How To Cope)

    EP 239: "Am I Eating Too Much?" ~ Understanding Extreme Hunger (What's Really Happening in Your Body & How To Cope)
    Sep 12 2025
    Are you experiencing intense hunger in recovery and wondering if something is wrong? Feeling like you can't get full no matter how much you eat? In this essential episode, Lindsey breaks down everything you need to know about extreme hunger in eating disorder recovery - why it happens, what it looks like, and most importantly, that it's completely normal and necessary for healing. Whether you're early in recovery or experiencing hunger waves after years of healing, this episode will help you understand your body's wisdom and navigate this phase with self-compassion instead of fear. Today's Truth: Extreme hunger is your body's way of healing and honoring it is one of the bravest things you can do in recovery. Key Topics Covered: 🍽️ What extreme hunger actually is - The different types and what they feel like in your body 🧠 Why extreme hunger happens - The science behind your body's need for extra nourishment ⏰ When it can occur - Early recovery, years later, or anytime your body needs healing 🚫 Myth-busting - Why extreme hunger isn't binge eating and doesn't mean you'll "blow up" 💪 Practical coping strategies - How to navigate extreme hunger with confidence and self-compassion 🤝 Dealing with others - How to handle comments from people who don't understand recovery Types of Extreme Hunger Explained: 🔹 Mechanical Hunger: Physical growling, gnawing sensations, feeling like a bottomless pit 🔹 Mental Hunger: Obsessive food thoughts, inability to concentrate on anything but eating 🔹 Reactive Eating: Eating large amounts quickly, especially previously restricted foods 🔹 Primal Hunger: Desperate, urgent need to eat that feels impossible to ignore What this might look like: Eating a full meal and feeling hungry immediately afterWaking up hungry in the middle of the nightNeeding snacks every hourIntense cravings for calorie-dense foods Remember: All of this is your body's wisdom in action. Why Extreme Hunger Happens: ✅ Metabolic restoration - Your metabolism needs extra energy to speed back up to normal levels ✅ Physical repair - Your body is repairing damage to organs, bones, hair, skin, and tissues ✅ Replenishing stores - Restoring depleted fat stores, glycogen, and energy reserves ✅ Trust building - Your body needs to learn that food will be consistently available Key insight: Extreme hunger can happen at ANY stage of recovery - sometimes years later when your body feels safe enough to ask for what it really needs. Myths About Extreme Hunger (DEBUNKED): ❌ Myth: "Everyone experiences extreme hunger in recovery" ✅ Truth: Not everyone does, and that's okay - every body is different ❌ Myth: "Extreme hunger is bad or means something is wrong" ✅ Truth: It's your body's intelligence and healing in action ❌ Myth: "Extreme hunger means you're binge eating" ✅ Truth: This is biological necessity, not psychological binge eating ❌ Myth: "If you honor it, you'll gain too much weight" ✅ Truth: Your body will settle at its natural weight when fully nourished Practical Coping Strategies: 🌟 Honor Your Hunger - Eat when hungry, as much as you're hungry for, whatever you're craving 🌟 Challenge ED Voice - Replace "This is too much" with "My body is healing" 🌟 Don't Compensate - No extra exercise, meal skipping, or restricting the next day 🌟 Include All Foods - Your body often craves calorie-dense foods for important reasons 🌟 Practice Self-Compassion - Remember your "why" and thank your body for its wisdom 🌟 Handle Outside Comments - You don't owe explanations for nourishing your body 🌟 Remember It's Temporary - Extreme hunger normalizes as your body heals and trusts Signs Hunger Is Normalizing: ✨ Hunger cues become more predictable ✨ You can go longer between meals comfortably ✨ Food thoughts become less obsessive ✨ You naturally desire a variety of foods ✨ Physical hunger matches mental satisfaction Key Takeaways: 💝 Your hunger is not your enemy - It's your body's wisdom guiding your healing 💝 This is normal and necessary - Extreme hunger is part of recovery, not a sign of failure 💝 Trust your body - It knows exactly what it needs to heal, even when it feels scary 💝 You're not binge eating - This is biological necessity driven by your body's needs 💝 It's temporary - Hunger will normalize as your body heals and learns to trust 💝 You don't need to justify nourishing yourself - To anyone, ever For Those Supporting Someone in Recovery: What NOT to say: "Are you sure you're still hungry?""That seems like a lot of food""You just ate an hour ago" What TO say: "I'm proud of you for nourishing your body""Your body knows what it needs""I'm here to support you" Ready for Community Support? Join The Recovery Collective! Finally, a recovery community that normalizes experiences like extreme hunger. If this episode resonated with you, you're exactly who The Recovery Collective was created for. This is where women in all phases of eating ...
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    23 mins
  • EP 238: The Truth About Recovering from an Eating Disorder Alone vs. in Community + Why I Wish I'd Had a Support Group Sooner

    EP 238: The Truth About Recovering from an Eating Disorder Alone vs. in Community + Why I Wish I'd Had a Support Group Sooner
    Sep 9 2025
    Have you ever felt completely alone in your eating disorder recovery? Like you're the only one dealing with food thoughts, body image struggles, and the exhaustion of pretending you're "fine"? In this vulnerable episode, Lindsey shares her personal story of trying to recover mostly in isolation and why she's now passionate about creating healing communities for women. Discover the research-backed reasons why community isn't just nice to have in recovery—it's essential. Plus, learn about The Recovery Collective, a new support group launching in October 2025 specifically for women in eating disorder recovery. Today's Truth: You were never meant to heal alone, and community isn't just nice to have in recovery - it's essential. Key Topics Covered: 🤝 Lindsey's personal story: What it felt like to recover mostly alone with limited community support 🧠 The science behind community healing: Research-backed evidence of why support groups transform recovery 💔 The isolation trap: How eating disorders thrive in secrecy and why healing alone is harder than it needs to be ✨ What community provides: Normalization, accountability, shared wisdom, and hope 🌟 The Recovery Collective: A new support group launching October 2024 for women in all phases of recovery Research Highlights: 📊 Support groups reduce symptoms: Studies show support groups helped reduce post-meal distress in young people with anorexia and can prevent disordered eating 📊 Connection drives recovery: Research confirms that eating disorder recovery is largely influenced by the individual's sense of connection to self and others 📊 Isolation increases struggle: When socially isolated, you lack the support and connection that can help protect against negative self-perception and low self-esteem 📊 Community decreases stigma: Eating disorder support groups offer safe spaces that decrease isolation and stigma while increasing engagement and motivation 📊 29 million affected: Nearly 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder at some point during their lifetime What Community Provides in Recovery: 💬 Language for your experience - Finally having words for what you're going through instead of feeling "crazy" 🔍 Perspective and reality checks - Others who can distinguish between your eating disorder voice and your true self 💕 Accountability that feels like love - Gentle support that comes from care, not judgment 🌈 Proof that recovery is possible - Seeing women further along in recovery living free, vibrant lives 🛡️ Protection against isolation - Regular connection that prevents the dangerous spiral of being alone with ED thoughts 🎯 Practical wisdom - Real-life strategies from women who've faced similar challenges Key Takeaways: ✨ You don't have to heal alone - Recovery was never meant to be a solo journey ✨ Community isn't replacement for therapy - It's the ongoing support that helps you live your recovery, not just survive it ✨ The right kind of community matters - Led by someone with lived experience who understands both clinical and personal aspects ✨ Consistency is crucial - Regular, ongoing support rather than crisis-only intervention ✨ Isolation fuels eating disorders - Breaking the cycle of secrecy and shame is essential for healing Introducing The Recovery Collective (Launching October 2025!) Finally, a recovery community that truly gets it. The Recovery Collective is where women in all phases of eating disorder recovery come together every other week to lock arms, share real struggles, and heal together in a safe, supportive environment. What You Get: Bi-weekly 60-minute group coaching calls via ZoomIntimate community of 10-15 women maximumReal, honest conversations that create actual changeSupport for navigating triggers, celebrating wins, and handling difficult daysLed by someone who's walked this path and understands the lived experienceOngoing support to help you live your recovery, not just survive it What Makes This Different: Led by someone with personal eating disorder recovery experienceFocus on practical, real-life recovery challengesCommunity of women who truly understand the struggleConsistent, ongoing support (not just crisis intervention)Safe space free from judgment or competition Special Founding Member Pricing: First 10 members: $47/month for 6 months (over 50% off!)Regular membership: $97/monthLess than what you spend on takeout for bi-weekly coaching and community support Who This Is For: Women in all phases of eating disorder recoveryThose tired of feeling alone in their healing journeyAnyone seeking understanding from others who've been thereWomen ready for ongoing support, not just weekly therapy appointments Recovery is possible, and it's so much sweeter when you're not doing it alone. Ready to learn more? www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective Connect with Lindsey Website: www.herbestself.co Private Facebook Community: Her Best Self Society ...
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    21 mins
  • EP 237: Do I Still Have Bad Body Image Days? (The Honest Truth) + My 8 Step Bad Body Image Toolkit

    EP 237: Do I Still Have Bad Body Image Days? (The Honest Truth) + My 8 Step Bad Body Image Toolkit
    Sep 5 2025
    What does recovery actually look like years later? Do bad body image days ever completely disappear? In this vulnerable episode, Lindsey pulls back the curtain on her life after eating disorder recovery and shares exactly what she does when difficult body image moments show up - because yes, they still do sometimes. If you've ever wondered what to expect from recovery or you're struggling with perfectionism around your healing journey, this episode will give you hope and practical tools you can use today. Today's Truth: Recovery doesn't mean perfection - it means having the tools to navigate difficult moments with love instead of war. Key Topics Covered: 🌟 The reality check: Do bad body image days ever completely stop? 🌟 Why having difficult moments doesn't mean you're "not recovered enough" 🌟 The difference between struggling in active eating disorder vs. recovery 🌟 8 practical tools for navigating bad body image days 🌟 How thoughts about your body directly impact how you feel in your body Lindsey's 8-Step Bad Body Image Day Toolkit: ✨ Give Yourself Grace Upon Grace Permission to feel without judgmentTalk to yourself like your best friendRemember: recovery isn't about never struggling ✨ Throw on Comfy, Baggy Clothes Remove physical discomfort that amplifies emotional discomfortFocus on how you feel, not how clothes fitThis isn't hiding - it's self-care ✨ Get to the Root: What Am I Trying to Control? Ask: "What's really going on here?"Often body image struggles are about something else entirelyAddress the actual issue, not just the symptom ✨ Resist Mirror-Checking Temptation Avoid body-checking and analyzingBody-checking always makes things worseRedirect energy toward things that serve you ✨ Honor Yourself with Mindful Eating Eat normally despite difficult feelingsChoose nourishing foods that taste goodDon't punish your body for emotional discomfort ✨ Notice Exercise Compulsions and Pause Ask: "Am I moving from love or punishment?"Choose gentle movement over intense workoutsIt's okay to rest when you're struggling ✨ No Social Media Scrolling Stay off platforms that trigger comparisonProtect your mental space fiercelyChoose books, friends, or creative activities instead ✨ Ask "How Do I Want to Feel?" Shift from "How do I look?" to "How do I want to feel?"Focus on strength, comfort, connection, gratitudeResearch shows this actually changes body image in real-time Key Takeaways: 💝 Recovery isn't about never struggling - it's about struggling with love instead of war 💝 Bad days don't mean bad weeks or months - you have tools now 💝 Your humanity doesn't disqualify your recovery - difficult moments are normal 💝 Progress over perfection, always - you're exactly where you need to be 💝 You can do hard things - including sitting with uncomfortable feelings Research Highlight: Studies show that when we focus on how we want to feel in our bodies rather than how we think we look, it directly impacts our actual body image experience. Our thoughts about our bodies influence how we experience being in our bodies - which means we have more power than we realize! Ready for Community Support? Join The Recovery Collective! Finally, a recovery community that gets it. If this episode resonated with you, you're exactly who The Recovery Collective was created for. This is where women in all phases of eating disorder recovery come together every other week to normalize the messy parts of healing, celebrate victories, and support each other with practical tools and genuine understanding. What You Get: Bi-weekly 60-minute group coaching calls via ZoomSafe, judgment-free space with 10-15 women maximumReal-time support for your current recovery challengesCommunity of women who understand what it's like to navigate recovery in real lifeCoaching insights that help you move forward with practical strategies Special Founding Member Pricing: First 10 members: $47/month for 6 months (over 50% off!)Regular membership: $97/monthLess than $1.50/day for bi-weekly coaching and community support Imagine having a safe space where you could share that you're having a difficult body image day and receive understanding, practical support, and gentle reminders of your worth instead of judgment. Recovery is possible right now, and it's so much more beautiful when we do it together. Ready to sign up? www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective Ready for Support? 📧 Email Lindsey: info@lindseynichol.com 🌐 Apply for Recovery Coaching: www.herbestself.co 💕 Join the Community: www.herbestselfsociety.com Limited spots available for fall coaching - only 2 slots remaining Connect with Lindsey: 🌟 Website: www.herbestself.co 🌟 Instagram: @thelindseynichol 🌟 Client Application: HBS Co. Recovery Coaching - Client Application - Google Forms Love this episode? Here's how you can support the show: 💕 Share it with a woman who might need to hear this message 💕 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts -...
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    18 mins
  • EP 236: 7 Books Every Woman in Recovery Needs on Her Nightstand + Your Personal Invite to The Recovery Collective Support Group💕

    EP 236: 7 Books Every Woman in Recovery Needs on Her Nightstand + Your Personal Invite to The Recovery Collective Support Group💕
    Sep 2 2025
    Are you tired of self-help books that sound good but don't create real change in your recovery journey? In this episode, Lindsey shares 7 current book recommendations that she's actively using with clients and in her own healing - books that will meet you right where you are and support your next brave step toward freedom. Whether you're just beginning to question your relationship with food and your body, or you're years into recovery and ready for that next level of freedom, there's something here for you. Today's Truth: You deserve resources that support your healing, and recovery is possible right now....but sometimes you just need an extra boost of belief! Books Featured in This Episode: 📚 "Feed Yourself" by Leslie Schilling Perfect for healing your relationship with food from the inside outTeaches intuitive eating and food freedom beyond diet culture 📚 "You're Not Enough (And That's Okay)" by Allie Stuckey Challenges toxic positivity and "be your own everything" mentalityOffers permission to need support in your recovery journey 📚 "Goodbye Perfect" by Homaira Kabir Essential reading for recovering people-pleasers and perfectionistsSubtitle: "How to Stop Pleasing, Proving, and Pushing for Others and Live for Yourself" 📚 "Already Enough: A Path to Self-Acceptance" by Lisa Olivera Medicine for anyone struggling with self-worth in recoveryFocuses on genuine self-acceptance, not fake confidence 📚 "Don't Believe Everything You Think" by Joseph Nguyen Game-changer for dealing with loud eating disorder thoughtsTeaches you that you are not your thoughts and don't have to believe them all 📚 "A Crown That Lasts: You Are Not Your Label" by Demi Tebow Powerful reminder that you are more than your eating disorder or diagnosisPerfect for finding identity beyond your struggles 📚 "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown Life-changing research on shame, vulnerability, and wholehearted livingEssential for anyone who's used perfectionism as armor Key Takeaways: ✨ Recovery is possible right now - You don't have to wait until you're "ready enough" ✨ You are not your eating disorder - Your thoughts and diagnosis don't define your worth ✨ Progress over perfection - Healing isn't linear, and that's completely normal ✨ You can do hard things - And you don't have to do them alone ✨ Your journey is unique - What works for others might look different for you, and that's okay Exciting News: The Recovery Collective is Launching October 2025! Finally, a recovery community that gets it. The Recovery Collective is where women in all phases of eating disorder recovery come together bi-weekly to share wins, navigate challenges, and build lasting freedom in a safe, supportive community. What You Get: Bi-weekly 60-minute group coaching calls via ZoomSafe, judgment-free space with 10-15 women maximumReal-time support for your current recovery challengesOptional check-in prompts and VIP offersCoaching insights that help you move forward, not backward Special Founding Member Pricing: First 10 members: $47/month (over 50% off!)Regular membership: $97/monthLess than $1.50/day for bi-weekly coaching and community support Recovery isn't a destination - it's a journey best taken together. www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective Connect with Lindsey: 🌟 Website: www.herbestself.co 🌟 Instagram: @thelindseynichol 🌟 Client Application: HBS Co. Recovery Coaching - Client Application - Google Forms Love this episode? Here's how you can support the show: 💕 Share it with a woman who might need to hear this message 💕 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - it helps other women find the show 💕 Screenshot and tag @thelindseynichol if you're reading any of these books! Remember, beautiful: Your worth is not measured by how perfectly you do recovery. Healing isn't linear, progress over perfection always, and you are exactly where you need to be right now. Her Best Self with Lindsey Nichol is a podcast for women in eating disorder recovery who are ready to break free from perfectionism, people-pleasing, and diet culture to live authentically and wholeheartedly. *While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
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    18 mins
  • EP 235.5: The 3 Core Beliefs That Are Secretly Fueling Your Eating Disorder + What to Do Next to Change the Way You Think

    EP 235.5: The 3 Core Beliefs That Are Secretly Fueling Your Eating Disorder + What to Do Next to Change the Way You Think
    Aug 29 2025
    Core beliefs are the fundamental, deeply held beliefs we develop in early childhood that shape how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. In this eye-opening episode, Lindsey breaks down how eating disorders stem from and reinforce negative core beliefs that can take years to heal from. Learn about the three types of core beliefs that are secretly feeding your disordered eating patterns and discover how to identify and transform these beliefs to break free from the cycle keeping you stuck. Key Takeaways Core beliefs are fundamental truths you've made into idols that need to be challengedEating disorders stem from and reinforce negative core beliefs developed in childhoodThere are 3 types of core beliefs: how you see yourself, others, and the worldYou are becoming someone you've never been before - be patient with that process"You either quit or keep going - they both hurt. Choose your hurt wisely." The 3 Types of Core Beliefs Type 1: How You See Yourself What It Includes: Self-worth and personal valueSelf-competence, skills, and abilitiesSelf-identity - who you are at your coreBeliefs shaped by caretakers, feedback, and criticisms over your lifetime How It Feeds EDs: "I'm not good enough" leads to perfectionism, restriction, and rigidityFalse identity created by the eating disorder becomes your truthTying worth and value to performance instead of inherent value How to Change It: Build self-compassion through recovery inspirationEmbrace your identity as "daughter of the most high, warrior, queen"Recognize the voice in your head is a false narrativeUnderstand you don't have to earn, restrict, or compensate for nourishment Type 2: How You View Other People What It Includes: Trustworthiness and reliability of othersBeliefs about goodwill and kindness in peoplePrejudices and stereotypesSafety mechanisms developed from rejection or inconsistent caregiving How It Feeds EDs: "If I can just be perfect, I'll have less rejection"Using food and exercise to control how others perceive you"If I gain weight, will my husband/boyfriend still want me?" How to Change It: Stop comparing yourself to other peopleUnderstand most people don't actually care about your recovery journeySet boundaries with people who aren't in your cornerAccept support from those who truly want what's best for you Type 3: Your Perception of the World What It Includes: Beliefs about safety vs. danger in your environmentAbundance vs. scarcity mindsetBeliefs about available resources and opportunitiesLevel of control you have over your life and world events How It Feeds EDs: "The world is unsafe, so I must perform to prove my value"Searching for control and stability through food/body managementFear-based restriction during uncertain times How to Change It: Challenge wellness culture and societal body image messagesCreate personal meaning and purpose beyond the disorder"Stay away from processed bodies rather than processed foods" How Core Beliefs Create ED Cycles The Connection: Core beliefs affect your motivations, goals, life choices, and desires for freedomNegative self-perception breeds perfectionism and restrictionFear of others' judgment results in using food and exercise for controlWorldview of unsafety heightens need to prove value through performance Powerful Quotes from This Episode "You are becoming someone you've never met before - and that's what I want you to take with you today.""What other people think of you is not your business.""No one truly cares what you are doing in your recovery outside of those closest to you.""You either quit or you get to keep going, and they both hurt. Choose your hurt wisely.""We have to stop living and breeding a culture where our daughters feel wrong for being in their own body." The Core Belief Transformation Process Step 1: Identification Recognize which of the 3 types of core beliefs are impacting your EDIdentify the "fundamental truths" you've made into idolsUnderstand these beliefs reinforce unhealthy coping mechanisms Step 2: Challenge Question beliefs about yourself, others, and the worldRecognize many beliefs aren't even yours - they were inheritedChallenge wellness culture and societal messages Step 3: Rebuild Build self-compassion and embrace your true identitySet boundaries and stop caring about bystanders' opinionsCreate meaning and purpose beyond the disorder Warning Signs Your Core Beliefs Are Feeding Your ED Tying your worth to your performance or appearanceBelieving you must be perfect to avoid rejectionUsing food/exercise to control how others see youFeeling unsafe in the world and needing control through restrictionBelieving you're "not good enough" or "unlovable" The Recovery Mindset Shifts From: "I'm not good enough" To: "I am a warrior becoming someone I've never been before" From: "I must be perfect to be loved" To: "I am worthy of love exactly as I am" From: "The world is unsafe" To: "I can create meaning and purpose beyond my fears" Journal Prompts for Core Belief ...
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    17 mins
  • EP 235: Feel the Fear & DO IT Anyway, Get Support Anyway! ~ Why Recovery Anxiety Is Your Green Light to Freedom

    EP 235: Feel the Fear & DO IT Anyway, Get Support Anyway! ~ Why Recovery Anxiety Is Your Green Light to Freedom
    Aug 26 2025
    What if the fear you feel about getting help for your eating disorder isn't a warning to stay away - but actually your internal compass pointing toward freedom? In this powerful episode, Lindsey shares wisdom from her 7-year-old son who said, "When I feel those flutters in my tummy, I just know I'm about to do something really brave." If you're feeling afraid to ask for help, scared to gain weight, or terrified of actually getting better, this tough-love episode will show you why those butterflies are your invitation to do the bravest thing you've ever done. Key Takeaways Fear isn't a stop sign - it's a compass pointing toward your breakthroughIf you could recover on your own, you already would haveThose flutters aren't warning you away from help - they're pointing you toward itYou don't feel brave first and then act brave - you act brave while feeling scaredReady is a feeling that comes AFTER you take action, not before Main Topics Covered The 7-Year-Old's Wisdom Lindsey's son facing his first day of second grade without his big brother"When I feel those flutters in my tummy, I just know I'm about to do something really brave"How children understand fear differently than adultsKids feel scared and do the thing anyway - adults build cases for why they should wait The Real Fears Keeping You Prisoner Fear of asking for help (admitting you can't do this alone)Fear of gaining weight (worth tied to a number on the scale)Fear of actually getting better (losing your eating disorder identity)Fear of investing in yourself (what if you spend money and don't change?) The Lie You've Been Believing About Fear If something feels scary, it must be wrong for youHeart racing when thinking about help = "not the right time"Anxiety about meal plans = "body not ready"Terror about recovery = "maybe not meant for me"Truth: Fear means it matters, it's important, you're about to grow Why Recovery Feels More Terrifying Than Staying Sick The "Safety" Illusion: Staying sick feels familiar = brain labels as "safe"Recovery feels unknown = brain labels as "dangerous" Reality Check - How "Safe" Is: Spending every moment thinking about foodMissing life because you're afraid of restaurantsMeasuring worth by what you ate yesterdayLiving in constant body anxietyIsolating because eating around others feels impossible What Bravery Looks Like in Recovery Admitting you need help when you want to prove independenceFollowing someone's guidance who has been there and recovered when ED voice screams it's too muchGaining weight when diet culture says smaller is betterInvesting money in recovery when you've never felt worth itShowing up to therapy and being honest instead of pretending you're fine The Wisdom Gap: Children vs. Adults Children: Feel scared → Do the thing anyway Adults: Feel scared → Analyze, overthink, research, wait Adult Excuses: "I'm not ready yet""I need to think about this more""I should try on my own one more time""What if it doesn't work?""I can't afford it right now" Fear as Your GPS System Sick feeling about calling a coach = "This way to freedom"Anxiety about meals = "This way to healing"Terror about recovering = compass pointing toward the life you've been dreaming about Powerful Quotes from This Episode "Fear isn't a stop sign. Fear is a compass pointing you toward your breakthrough.""If you could recover on your own, you already would have.""Fear doesn't mean it's wrong. Fear means it matters.""Those flutters aren't telling you to run from recovery - they're telling you you're about to do something incredibly brave.""You don't feel brave first and then do brave things. You do brave things while feeling scared." The Cost of Playing It Safe Questions to Consider: How's playing it safe working out for you?How's trying to manage this ED on your own been going?How's waiting until you feel "ready" been serving your recovery? The Reality: Everything you're afraid of losing by being brave, you'll replace with something infinitely betterPlaying it safe = staying in a familiar prisonTaking action despite fear = walking toward freedom What Going All In Actually Means Not perfection, but: Being willing to be imperfect in the direction of healingReaching out for professional help despite vulnerabilityFollowing meal plans despite ED resistanceGaining weight despite diet culture programmingInvesting in yourself despite never feeling worth itShowing up to therapy even when you want to cancel The Decision Point Two Choices: Let fear drive your bus (stay stuck in eating disorder)Feel the fear and drive anyway (choose recovery despite butterflies) The Truth: Butterflies aren't telling you to turn aroundThey're telling you you're at the edge of your comfort zoneAll growth happens outside your comfort zone Signs This Episode Is For You You feel afraid to ask for help with your eating disorderYou're waiting to feel "ready" before taking actionYou've been trying to recover on your own without successThe thought of gaining weight ...
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    21 mins
  • EP 234.5: How Are You Really? The Question That Breaks Through Eating Disorder Denial + Why Your Brain Believes the Lies⛓️‍💥

    EP 234.5: How Are You Really? The Question That Breaks Through Eating Disorder Denial + Why Your Brain Believes the Lies⛓️‍💥
    Aug 22 2025
    "I'm fine." "I don't have a problem." "Everyone else is overreacting." Sound familiar? If people around you are expressing concern about your relationship with food but you genuinely feel okay, this episode is essential listening. Recovery coach Lindsey Nichol gets raw about the difference between denial and anosognosia—and why your malnourished brain might literally be unable to recognize the problem. She shares her own story of feeling "on top of the world" while struggling with anorexia, and introduces one powerful question that can break through the fog of eating disorder denial. This episode is for you if: Others say you have a problem but you feel fineYou're questioning whether you're "sick enough"You feel like you just have more willpower than othersYou're confused about whether your eating patterns are normalYou've been told you need help but don't understand why What You'll Discover ✨ The difference between denial and anosognosia (and why it matters for your recovery) ✨ Why malnourishment literally impairs your ability to recognize disordered eating patterns ✨ Lindsey's personal story: How she felt superior and in control while her body was failing ✨ The science behind eating disorder awareness and brain function ✨ One crucial question that can shatter the illusion and start your healing journey ✨ How to tell if your eating patterns are actually normal or adopted behaviors Understanding Eating Disorder Denial Anosognosia vs. Denial Anosognosia: "Without knowledge" - physiological brain damage that creates complete unawareness of the problem. You literally cannot perceive your disordered behaviors. Denial: Knowing you have a problem but refusing to address it. Using defense mechanisms to avoid facing the truth. Signs Your Brain Might Be Lying to You Feeling "on top of the world" while restricting foodSuperiority complex about your "willpower"Believing everyone else is jealous or crazyWearing restrictive eating like a "badge of honor"Feeling energized despite severe calorie restrictionComplete confusion when others express concern Lindsey's Personal Story "When I was struggling with anorexia, I felt like I was on top of the world. I had this superiority complex, like everyone else was just jealous that they didn't have the willpower that I had. The more I restricted, the more satisfaction I achieved and the more in control I felt." The One Question That Changes Everything "How are you? No, but how are you REALLY?" Why This Question Works Challenges automatic "I'm fine" responsesForces honest self-assessmentBreaks through subconscious denialReveals underlying unsureness and hesitancy How to Use This Question Sit with yourself honestly - don't give the surface-level answerChallenge your patterns - are these behaviors you've always had or recently adopted?Listen to trusted voices - if people you love are concerned, investigate whyAssess your daily reality - survival mode isn't the same as thriving Red Flags to Consider 🚩 Constantly telling yourself you don't need to eat 🚩 Never feeling hungry (when you used to) 🚩 Bargaining and finding ways to restrict 🚩 Terror of weight gain controlling decisions 🚩 Rigid food rules that feel like "identity" 🚩 Behaviors that started as dieting but intensified Powerful Moments from This Episode "That voice is not you. With a healthy brain, you can assume positive intent from your internal voice. When you have a malnourished brain, it's important to challenge your mind with every tiny little thing." "You can't change something you can't name. You can't change patterns and behaviors that you can't accept are patterns and behaviors." "You are not a failure for getting help and support. The only way you fail is if you quit." Your Next Steps If You Recognize Yourself in This Episode: Answer the question honestly: How are you really?Look at your patterns: Are these normal behaviors or adopted restrictions?Listen to loved ones: If trusted people are concerned, investigate their perspectiveSeek professional support: You don't have to figure this out alone Ready for Support? 📧 Email Lindsey: info@lindseynichol.com 🌐 Apply for Recovery Coaching: www.herbestself.co 💕 Join the Community: www.herbestselfsociety.com Limited spots available for fall coaching - only 2 slots remaining Key Takeaways 💡 Malnourishment literally impairs your ability to recognize eating disorder symptoms 💡 "I'm fine" often masks underlying confusion and unsureness 💡 Eating disorders progress gradually - you didn't wake up sick overnight 💡 Trusted voices matter - if loved ones are concerned, listen 💡 Awareness is the first step - you can't change what you won't acknowledge If this episode helped you recognize patterns you hadn't seen before, please leave a 5-star rating and review. Your support helps more women break through denial and find the help they deserve.
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    18 mins