#97: Dr. Anita Johnston on Being a Highly Sensitive Person & How Authenticity Heals Us
As we close out this year, we are revisiting a fan-favorite and incredibly healing conversation with Dr. Anita Johnston. Listen in as we discuss the magic of metaphors and story-telling in ED recovery, and how we can return home to our authentic selves to find lasting freedom from food restriction and body dissatisfaction. Abbie and Anita discuss why highly intuitive and deeply feeling people tend to be most vulnerable to eating disorders, and how to use those gifts as superpowers.
Topics covered:
How being highly sensitive impacts disordered eating and healing
The safety and security that EDs can provide
Anita's childhood in Guam and how that shaped her experience with food, body, and herself
Our illusion of control in having an eating disorder
Storytelling and metaphor in ED treatment
The importance of language in recovery and healing
Disordered eating thoughts and behaviors as a coping mechanism and distraction
Following our joy and authenticity to freedom from diet culture
Emotional literacy and boundaries
Why those who suffer from EDs are the ones that the world needs most
Mothering energy versus fathering energy
Reparenting ourselves
The most essential tools for healing
About Dr. Anita Johnston: Dr. Anita Johnston, Ph.D., CEDS is a clinical psychologist and certified eating disorder specialist and supervisor, working in the field of women’s issues and eating disorders for over 35 years. She is the author of the best selling book, Eating in the Light of the Moon and co-creator of the Light of the Moon Cafe, a series of online interactive courses and women’s support circles, and Soul Hunger workshops. She is currently the Clinical Director of Ai Pono Hawaii eating disorder programs with out-patient programs on Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii, and an ocean-front residential program on Maui. Find Anita on Instagram: @dranitajohnston
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Podcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroy
Podcast Editing by Brian Walters
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