Journal of Psychology & Psychotherapy
Open Access

Dear body; an integrated mindfulness approach to anxiety, disordered eating and body-related concerns

29^th World Summit on Positive Psychology, Mindfulness and Psychotherapy

May 21-22, 2018 | New York, USA

Charlotte Thaarup

The Mindfulness Clinic

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Psychol Psychother

Abstract :

Statement of the Problem: Anti-fat prejudice and obesity are global realities and can lead to anxiety, self- loathing and shame for those concerned. This is generally because obesity is associated with laziness and lack of self-control. As a result, the â�?�?Dear Bodyâ�?�? program was created using mindfulness and mindful eating to support healthy weight patterns while, concurrently reducing stress and anxiety. A key intention of the program is to facilitate a shift of focus from relating to the body in a cognitive fashion, colored by cultural stereotypes, to a sensory perspective resulting in a kind and intimate body experience. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The research program was conducted through a combination of quantitative and qualitative research. A series of standardized measures addressing stress levels, general psychological wellbeing, body appreciation, restraint ability, food cravings and self-compassion were used to establish the quantitative findings. The qualitative research comprised: a mix of conversations, emails, written feedback and closed group Facebook community posts â�?�? analyzed both as an on-going process and after the completion of the program. Participants were self-selected and attended a variety of program formats, which will be explained in the conference presentation. Conclusion & Significance: Results post program showed a marked shift in participantâ�?�?s relationships with their bodies. Everyone reported a more connected, and caring body perspective and this connection being crucial in changing eating and exercise habits. Qualitative comments formed distinct themes: the power of using the term â�?�?Dear Bodyâ�?; weight loss as a side effect of the program; increased inclination towards healthier food choices after program; stress reduction, and the reduction/ cessation of binge eating. Based on this research and on-going feedback, it is purported that the Dear Body program delivers positive results in relation to changing participantâ�?�?s relationships between their bodies, eating and weight as well as resulting in stress reduction.

Biography :

Charlotte Thaarup is an internationally experienced Clinical Mindfulness Consultant and Transformative Educator. She has facilitated Mindfulness internationally for the past 10 years as retreats, workplace training, workshops and coaching. She has designed and facilitated mindfulness workshops which were APS (Australian Psychological Society) endorsed locally and abroad. She has over 20 years’ experience in facilitating change and personal and interpersonal development as well as leadership training and retreats. She has a published paper on innovation and creativity in organizations using mindfulness and presented the 2nd International Mindfulness Conference in Rome on her program Dear Body. Dear Body which has been researched through University of Western Sydney. She is a registered accredited mediator and has worked at executive level in the public and not for profit sectors as well as running her own company for over 12 years.

E-mail: charlotte@themindfulnessclinic.com.au