I began my SHAPE Program journey over two years ago, on May 21, 2015. It was one of the smartest and most empowering decisions of my adult life. Here’s why:
I am a sugar addict and recovering binge eater. For as longs as I can remember, I used sugar and food as a distraction, as a way to escape and numb myself. That’s how I “dealt” with my problems – by shoving sugar and food down my throat. I used my financial problems, relationship issues, family issues, trauma, sadness, feelings of worthlessness, anxiety and PMS as excuses to eat whatever I wanted and as much as I wanted. I used them as a form of “self-care” and nurturance. I used them as a “reward” for small successes like getting through a hard day, being “good” all day long, getting a new class or a new client, or simply to congratulate myself for gathering up the energy to clean the house. Triggered by any kind of stress, aversion to discomfort or negative thinking, I’d instantly crave sugar or food. I could easily deaden the present and even the past with a dose of extra cookies, a bag of chocolate and an extra large, extra cheese pizza. I’d continue eating until the disappointments, pain, overwhelm and heartache were masked by the feeling of being stuffed. Then I’d keep going.
I remember sitting on my couch one day in May and admitting out loud, “I need help, and I’m ready. Please help me.” Then I instantly thought of Deborah.
I’ve known Deborah for years through the healing arts community and also worked for her at The Center for Mind, Body and Spirit offering Thai Massage for a while. I knew she was doing the SHAPE Program herself and could see the results she achieved in her body and her energy. I decided to try it.
When I came to the SHAPE Program, I was completely unhappy in my body and my mind. I was at least 60 pounds overweight and suffering from joint pain, poor sleep, anxiety and depression. I felt miserable.
After merely a week on the SHAPE Program, I noticed my sleep improved, my inflammation was reduced, my mood was stable and I had lost more pounds than expected, which motivated me to continue.
I was genuinely excited to prepare delicious, healthy meals and to discover new recipes that nourished my body. I also noticed how satisfied I felt after eating real foods that supported my well-being.
It’s been over two years, and I am proud to say I am still living a SHAPE lifestyle. I am sugar free and now experience tremendous ease and lightness in my body.
Being on the SHAPE Program is truly a gift that has taught me to listen to the intelligence of my body and trust myself again. I am beyond grateful for SHAPE ReClaimed and for Deborah!
Submitted by Deborah Zorensky, MS, RD, LD, CCN
