Recovery from an eating disorder is not a linear journey. It’s challenging, requires immense effort, and takes time. However, the life you’ll gain on the other side is extraordinary and worth every step of the process. In my latest episode of the Escape Diet Prison podcast, I dive deep into my own 14-year recovery journey and share how I’ve transformed my relationship with food, movement, and myself.
The Beginning of Eating Disorder Recovery
When I started recovery 14 years ago, I had no idea how much work it would take. I was entrenched in patterns that controlled every aspect of my life. My relationship with movement, for instance, was solely about shrinking myself, punishing my body, and counteracting food. Exercise wasn’t about joy or connection; it was about control and fear.
Recovery from an eating disorder forced me to confront those patterns and reframe them entirely. This wasn’t a quick or easy process—it required years of trial and error, self-reflection, and discomfort. But gradually, I began to rebuild my relationship with movement into something positive.
Today, I love moving my body. Whether it’s running, dancing, or simply enjoying a walk outside, movement is now a celebration of strength and vitality. It’s about feeling strong, clear-headed, and connected with my body—not punishing it.
Transforming My Relationship with Movement
In the video, I share a recent milestone: running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days as part of The Great World Race. For some, this may seem like an extreme feat tied to disordered behaviors. But for me, it was a celebration of the incredible strength my body has developed over years of healing.
This challenge was never about shrinking myself. It was about adventure, joy, and seeing just how far I could go after everything my body and mind have endured. I nourished my body properly throughout the training and races, and I felt strong and empowered every step of the way.
That’s the gift of recovery. Once you’ve put in the work, you discover that your body is capable of so much more than you ever thought possible.
Eating Disorder Recovery Takes Time
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to heal deeply ingrained patterns, and setbacks are part of the process. Life will continue to throw challenges your way—grief, stress, relationships, and even global pandemics. Recovery equips you to face these obstacles with resilience and self-compassion.
In the video, I emphasize the importance of giving yourself time. Early in eating disorder recovery, it can feel like progress is slow or even nonexistent, but every small step you take is building the foundation for a better life.
The Life You’ll Gain
After 14 years, I can confidently say that recovery is worth it. My life is full of joy, adventure, and connection. I no longer live in fear of food or movement. I’m stronger, both physically and mentally, than I ever imagined I could be.
If you’re in the early stages of recovery or feeling stuck, I hope my story inspires you to keep going. The hard work you’re doing now will pay off in ways you can’t yet imagine.
Watch the video to hear more about my journey.
Eating disorder recovery isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. It’s about reclaiming your life and building something beautiful and fulfilling. I promise, the life waiting for you on the other side is worth every ounce of effort.
Have questions or thoughts? Write a comment here or connect with me on Instagram: @annesophiereinhardt I’d love to hear your story.
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