Healing from Disordered Eating While Still Going to the Gym
I am currently in recovery for an eating disorder and I am trying to navigate my return to the gym. My doctors gave me the okay as long as I do not overdo it, but it is a mental minefield. I have to be very careful not to let the old competitive thoughts creep back in.
I am working on seeing exercise as a form of self care rather than a way to burn off calories. I have found that group classes are better for me right now because they are more social and less focused on individual metrics. I am also avoiding the scale like the plague.
Has anyone else managed to stay active while healing from an ED? What boundaries did you have to set for yourself? I really want to keep lifting because it makes me feel strong, but I have to prioritize my mental health above everything else right now.