10 Tricks to Beat Emotional Eating

We all have bad days. Sometimes, the world is just so scary and frustrating and a hunk of cheesecake feels like the only way out. Here are ten alternatives to diving headfirst into a bag of chocolate covered pretzels:

Clean

- What? That’s no fun! Maybe you’re right, but scrubbing, mopping, and organizing is incredibly theraputic and keeps your hands busy- and out of the cookie jar. Bonus: a clean bathroom.

Walk-

A brisk walk will give you a jolt of endorphins-your happy hormones- and give you time to think. Also, getting out of the house and away from the fridge is a good idea when you’ve got the munchies.

Take a bath-

A good soak will warm you up and help you unwind after a stressful phone call. Try adding scented bath oils and lighting some candles; put on some soft music. The M&M’s in the cupboard will be the last thing on your mind.

Scrapbook-

Find a way to keep your brain and hands occupied. If scrap booking isn’t your thing, try drawing, jigsaw puzzles, or origami.

Watch some Friends reruns-

Studies show that a good laugh will boost your mood for hours afterward, which will quell your cravings better than a milkshake.

Go to the library-

I know I’m the queen of Nerdsville, but this is my favorite place to go when I’m upset. Browse books on topics that interest you, find some music you’ve never heard of, or kick back in the magazine section. Libraries are a “food-neutral” area, virtually free of images and smells that trigger cravings. You’re munchies will flee in a half-hour tops.

Snuggle-

Cuddling with a significant or even a pet will make you feel loved and secure, which may dissolve some of your worries.

Read-

Sometimes, you just need an escape. Curl up on the couch with a thriller or fantasy to draw you in. My favorite “bad day” books are the Harry Potter or Fablehaven series, or a thriller by Dean Koontz.

Put on your headphones-

Sometimes, you just want to shut everything out. Dance around your living room, sing badly at the top of your lungs, rock out like the neighbors can’t hear you.

Write-

Journaling helps you figure out your problems without eating your way through them like the Very Hungry Caterpillar. It’s also a great way to vent. Write whatever you want and release those bad feelings.