Eating disorders are a form of mental illness that are characterised by a dysfunctional relationship with food and subsequently disordered eating behaviours. Although there are only a limited number of research trials exploring the direct effect of yoga for eating disorders, health professionals increasingly view yoga as a potentially helpful approach in a patient’s road to recovery. 
 

A complex mix of distorted body image, compulsive behaviours and low self-esteem, eating disorders are often all-consuming and extremely dangerous to those who experience them. Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental health issue and eating disorders are both a physical and mental illness – and therefore, particularly challenging to treat (The Minded Institute). 
 

In order to help people recover from eating disorders, health professionals are taking an interdisciplinary approach to tackle the physical and psychological symptoms, as well as offering significant initial intervention (including inpatient care) and continued outpatient support.  
 

It is within this context that yoga can help people recover from issues such as bulimia and anorexia. Yoga offers another “tool in the toolbox”  helping to lift patients out of the self-destructive cycle of an eating disorder. 

Here are some further useful links to support your journey of eating disorders recovery. 

Remember, you got this!