Friday, April 18, 2008

Celebrate Your Cravings!

Yep, you read it right.
Cravings are messages from your body. Your body has an innate intelligence that knows how to maintain a balanced state. When we are not in balance, our bodies send us cues and clues to let us know something is not quite right. A craving is one such example. The next time you have a craving, celebrate! Your body is communicating something very important to you!
What are you really craving? Is it food or something more? Sometimes cravings indicate a mineral deficiency. Often cravings are due to a hormonal imbalance. Usually they are a sign of dehydration. Sometimes cravings signify that you have a longing for something much deeper. Perhaps you are lonely and long for love. Maybe you are wishing for something comforting. You might be wishing for excitement or adventure. Once you can make the connection between your craving and what you REALLY want, you can begin to find ways to satisfy your craving with people and experiences rather than food. The following is a guide to encourage you to dig deeper and make the connection between your cravings and what may really be going on for you.
  • Do you crave something sweet? You may really need some physical affection, a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend, or good cry.
  • Do you crave spicy food? You may be looking for adventure or an exhilerating experience!
  • Do you crave salt? Maybe you are seeking a deeper, richer flavor in your life or you are looking for a way to alleviate boredom.
  • Do you crave sour flavors? You are probably ready for something new in your life. Try something you have always wanted to do, but never had the courage to do.
  • Do you crave leafy green vegetables? Great! Your body is in a state of knowing what it needs to regain balance!
Addressing Cravings
  1. The first step in alleviating cravings is to drink water. Hydrate yourself so that you have the energy to dig deeper within yourself to find out what you really want.
  2. Eat balancing foods such as whole grains, beans, and vegetables. Sugar and meat create imbalances in some people.
  3. Get support as you navigate your journey inward.
  4. Be gentle with yourself. Procede slowly and deliberately and be gentle.