Her Best Self: Freedom from Disordered Eating, Body Obsession & Perfectionism

In this heartfelt episode, we tackle the complicated emotions that arise when someone says "you look healthy" during eating disorder recovery. Drawing from personal experience, Lindsey provides compassionate guidance and practical strategies to process these well-intentioned comments without letting them derail your recovery journey. In This Episode: [00:00] Introduction: Why "you look healthy" can feel triggering in recovery [02:15] The powerful quote that reframes what "healthy" truly means [04:30] Understanding our emotional reaction to appearance comments [06:45] Strategy #1: The Pause and Reframe [08:30] Strategy #2: The Curiosity Approach [10:15] Strategy #3: The Gratitude Pivot [12:00] Strategy #4: The Feeling Validation [13:45] Strategy #5: The Recovery Identity Reminder [15:30] The reality of progress: It's not linear, but it is possible [17:00] This week's challenge: Creating your personal definition of health [18:30] Closing thoughts and resources Key Takeaways: "Healthy" isn't a code word for weight gain—it encompasses mental clarity, emotional presence, and overall vitality Learning to separate appearance comments from your self-worth is a crucial recovery skill Practical techniques like curiosity, reframing, and validation can help manage triggering moments Recovery progress isn't about never feeling triggered—it's about developing new response patterns Your authentic self-returning is what people are often really noticing and celebrating xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.  

In this deeply personal episode, Lindsey explores how shadow work can help those struggling with eating disorders, particularly anorexia and restrictive eating patterns. This episode provides a guided assignment for listeners to explore the deeper emotional roots of their disordered eating, designed to be completed in a quiet, private space. Through 11 powerful questions, Lindsey invites you to shine light on the shadows that may be manifesting through your relationship with food and your body. In This Episode Lindsey's personal story about living with anorexia and the hidden emotional pain it masked Introduction to shadow work as a complementary practice to professional eating disorder treatment 11 reflective questions to help identify the deeper wounds and needs behind disordered eating Guidance on approaching this work with self-compassion and patience The Shadow Work Questions What is the biggest lie I tell myself constantly? What is the story I tell myself about this lie? When am I the hardest on myself and why? When have I felt rejected, betrayed, or broken? What would I say to the person that hurt me? What makes me feel the most jealous? What do I wish I had that I don't? What traits do/did my parents have that I hope I don't have? What are my toxic traits? How do I push those on others? When I think about my future, what am I most afraid of? When was the last time that I forgave myself? What does happiness mean to me? Resources Mentioned Journaling supplies (recommended for completing the shadow work assignment) Finding a quiet, private space like a park bench for reflection Important Note This episode is meant to complement, not replace, professional treatment for eating disorders. If you're struggling with an eating disorder, please reach out to a healthcare professional for support. Resources Mentioned: www.herbestself.co  - Work with Lindsey one-on-one www.herbestselfsociety.com  - Join our supportive community xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

In this eye-opening episode, Lindsey Nichol tackles Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and its significant overlap with eating disorders. Learn how to recognize BDD patterns, understand its impact on your daily life, and discover practical strategies to break free from appearance obsessions and reclaim your joy. In this episode, you'll discover: What Body Dysmorphic Disorder really is and how it differs from normal insecurity The surprising statistics: 25-39% of those with eating disorders also experience BDD Ella's inspiring journey from daily mirror checking to finding freedom and presence in the things that matter most to her 6 powerful, actionable strategies to begin healing from BDD today Why your body was never meant to be your life's work, but to champion you in doing your life's work Transformative quotes: "Your body was never meant to be your life's work. It was meant to champion you in doing your life's work." - Lindsey Nichol "Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." - Coco Chanel "You can't hate yourself happy. You can't criticize yourself thin. You can't shame yourself worthy. Real change begins with self-love and self-care." - Jessica Ortner The 6 Practical Strategies Covered: Practice Mindful Awareness Challenge Distorted Thinking Reduce Social Media Comparison Redirect Your Focus Practice Body Neutrality Seek Professional Support Resources Mentioned: www.herbestself.co - Work with Lindsey one-on-one herbestselfsociety.com - Join our supportive community If you're tired of obsessing over perceived flaws that others don't notice, constantly checking your appearance, or avoiding social situations because of body image concerns, this episode provides the compassionate guidance and practical tools you need to begin healing. Subscribe now and take the first step toward freedom from appearance obsessions! 💕 #BodyDysmorphicDisorder #BodyImage #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfLove Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it. xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

Hey there! Did you know that there are only 2 emotions that impact every choice you make & ever action you take? Wild right?! So what are they?  Well...without giving away all the goods, I'll encourage you to listen in to Episode 211, which is one of my favorite episodes that I wanted to replay for you on the Her Best Self Podcast so that you can hear for yourself! If you are tired of doing the same thing & you find yourself stuck in confusion, or terrified of the "what-ifs", then today's show is perfect for you! In this episode I discuss the power of understanding which emotion is leading your current reality, so that you can CHANGE the game & start living as the best version of you. ~ Emotion is energy IN MOTION.... you actually create what you fear. Let that one sink in! & come join us on the show! xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.  

If you're feeling stuck in your recovery journey, Episode 210.5, shares the top hidden barriers that might be keeping you chained to eating disorder patterns - and how to break free once and for all. IN THIS EPISODE Things to Stop Doing: Stop Assuming You Always Know What's Best Eating disorders thrive on the illusion of expertise "I know what's best" is often the disorder speaking, not your wisdom Recovery requires challenging your own assumptions Professional guidance provides perspective you can't see from within Stop Believing the Lie That You Aren't Doing Enough to Recover Recovery isn't about doing more; it's about being more "Never enough" mentality leads to recovery perfectionism The essential ingredient isn't more tasks—it's self-compassion Ask: "How can I bring more compassion to this moment?" Stop Avoiding Discomfort The only way out is through Eating disorders themselves are systems for avoiding discomfort Recovery requires moving toward discomfort, not away from it Each time you face discomfort, you build resilience Stop Thinking the Worst Possible Scenario Is Gaining Weight The real worst-case scenario is never experiencing freedom As long as weight gain remains your greatest fear, the disorder retains power Recovery may include body changes, but they aren't the catastrophe predicted There is no wrong choice in recovery—only refusing to make a choice ACTION STEPS Identify which of these 10 patterns is most holding you back Choose one pattern to focus on disrupting this week Practice moving toward discomfort rather than away from it Revisit your recovery priorities and realign your energy accordingly Consider whether professional support could help you break these patterns   Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it. xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

If you're feeling stuck in your recovery journey, this part 1 of a 2 part episode shares the top hidden barriers that might be keeping you chained to eating disorder patterns - and how to break free once and for all. IN THIS EPISODE Things to Stop Doing: Stop Waiting for Perfect Circumstances There will never be a "perfect time" to heal Recovery happens IN life, not separate from it The waiting game is another form of control and perfectionism Recovery requires a decision, not ideal conditions Stop Spending Time and Energy on Things That Aren't Recovery Priorities Your time and energy are your most precious recovery resources Identify where you're "leaking energy" through triggering activities Ask yourself: Does this support my healing or undermine it? Recovery requires intentional redirection of your resources Stop Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else Comparison is a recovery killer You're comparing your behind-the-scenes to others' highlight reels Your recovery journey is unique to your body and history The only valuable comparison is to your yesterday self Stop Changing Course - Results Take Time and Commitment Recovery isn't a race; it's a journey "Recovery whiplash" prevents momentum and lasting change Recovery tools are like muscles - they get stronger with consistent use Before abandoning your approach, ask if you've given it a fair chance Stop Thinking You're So Out of the Ordinary You are not the only person who has ever navigated this The core patterns of eating disorders are remarkably consistent Feeling "uniquely broken" becomes an excuse to stay stuck Connection to others with shared experiences is powerful medicine Stop Thinking Short Term You deserve lasting freedom, not just getting through the next meal Short-term focus can lead to decisions that undermine long-term healing Recovery requires balancing daily work with a vision of what you're working toward Think in terms of years, not just days Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it. Come back on Friday, to listen to the 2nd part of Episode 210, where I unravel the remaining 4 things for you to stop doing today! Until then, sending recovery hugs. xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.  

In this episode, I discuss the importance of making yourself the priority in recovery and I introduce the powerful RAIN method. This method can be used just 5 minutes a day for practicing mindfulness and self-compassion during difficult moments in your eating disorder recovery journey. Your Assignment is YOU This season is about planting seeds for your own growth and healing You need permission to make your recovery the priority Self-care isn't self-indulgence—it's essential recovery work Recovery takes root when you commit to "watering your garden first" The Seasons of Recovery We expect constant productivity from ourselves but don't apply the same standards to nature There are natural seasons for growth, rest, and transformation The eating disorder thrives when you're depleted and exhausted Rest and self-nurturing create the conditions for healing What It Means to "Water Yourself" Providing consistent, adequate nourishment without food rules Hydration—both literal and metaphorical waters of connection Exposure to things that bring joy and remind you who you are Rest periods where you're simply being, not producing The RAIN Method Breakdown Recognize what's happening in the moment without judgment Notice triggers, urges, thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations Name what you're experiencing to create space between you and the experience Allow the experience to be there without trying to fix or change it Stop fighting against difficult emotions or thoughts Break the cycle of shame by acknowledging "this is what's happening right now" Investigate with kindness and curiosity Ask gentle questions: "What triggered this?" "What am I really needing?" Notice where you feel sensations in your body Identify the stories you're telling yourself Nurture yourself with self-compassion Offer yourself what you truly need in the moment Speak to yourself as you would to a dear friend Remember that difficult feelings will pass I hope Episode 209 blesses you & that you share it with someone else who may benefit! xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.  

Hey there sister friend! I am so ready to embrace this new week. The boys & I are on spring break & we are loving it! We are enjoying getting away from the usual routines & mundane schedules. This week we are surrendering all control & embracing spontaneous adventures. Which at one point, would have been my controlling nature, which had me thinking about CONTROL. So I knew I must revisit a previous episode & bring it back to the top of your pod listens! in Episode 208.5 of the podcast, I share what you need to know about control. I discuss the Restrict/Emotional Eating Cycle & how you can start today to break the habit loop in your life. ~ Here is what you need to know: in order to let go of control, you must release the fight within you. The battle in your mind is REAL! & it's the hardest one you will ever conquer.  But the good news is, you have the power right now inside of you to surrender your desire to control food, so that you can gain freedom from what is actually controlling you. Freedom from ED 🎉 I believe in you! Now go out & listen to Episode 132 to help you do the same.  xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

In this powerful episode, we tackle one of the biggest barriers to eating disorder recovery: waiting to feel "ready." Statistics show the average person waits seven years between eating disorder onset and seeking treatment—seven years of suffering that could be avoided sis! In Episode 208, we explore why "ready" isn't a feeling that magically appears but a decision you make despite fear and uncertainty. Through client stories, expert insights, and practical steps, you'll discover how to move forward in your recovery journey without waiting for the perfect moment. Whether you're struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or disordered eating patterns, this episode offers the perspective shift and motivation you need to take that crucial first step toward healing. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN: Why the eating disorder voice will never tell you it's time to recover The myth of "feeling ready" and how it keeps you trapped in the cycle How to make the decision to start recovery even while feeling afraid Small, manageable steps you can take today, regardless of your "readiness" The life that awaits on the other side of this crucial decision KEY QUOTES "Ready isn't when the fear disappears. Ready is when you decide to move forward despite the fear." "You don't have to be ready for the whole journey. You just have to be ready for the next step." "Recovery doesn't happen in one giant leap. It happens in thousands of small decisions." hope you enjoy this one friend! xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ www.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the parallel between rookie seasons in baseball & the early stages of eating disorder recovery. Through a personal story about my 11-year-old son, I share with you powerful lessons about perseverance, finding purpose in setbacks, and recognizing God's work in challenging seasons. Whether you're just beginning your recovery journey or facing a difficult setback, this episode offers both spiritual encouragement and practical tools to help you step up to the plate with renewed confidence. Here are a few key points: Why setbacks in recovery are like strikeouts in baseball—necessary parts of the growth process The story of a young baseball player learning to value progress over perfection How God uses "rookie seasons" to develop dependence, resilience, and character The difference between the scoreboard mentality and the growth mentality in recovery Biblical perspectives on finding purpose in struggle and disappointment Transform your setbacks into stepping-stones by creating a Recovery Learning Log. After experiencing a slip in your recovery journey, ask yourself these three questions: What was happening right before I felt triggered? (Identify patterns) What need was I trying to meet through this behavior? (Uncover underlying issues) What's one small adjustment I can make next time I face this situation? (Build practical wisdom) This simple practice shifts your relationship with struggle from shame to growth and invites God into your development process. I hope you loved today's episode, just as I have so very much enjoyed recording it for you sis! xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ www.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.