Food cravings. They can feel overwhelming, persistent, and downright frustrating. If you’ve ever felt like they control your life, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, too. For years, I believed cravings were an unshakable part of my relationship with food. But what if I told you there’s a way to work with cravings instead of battling against them?
In this blog, I’ll share the steps and mindset shifts that helped me reclaim my power over food cravings. These tools have transformed my life and the lives of many others on similar journeys. If you’re ready to decode cravings and reclaim your relationship with food, let’s get started.
And if you love diving deeper, don’t miss the latest episode of my podcast, Fat2Fierce® The Confidence Chronicles—where I unpack this topic with even more insights and personal stories to inspire your journey.
The Truth About Cravings
Cravings often feel like an unstoppable force, sneaking up and demanding attention until satisfied. For me, sweets were the culprit—chocolate, buttercream icing, ice cream—you name it. It felt like they had a grip on me, and the only relief came from giving in.
But here’s the thing: cravings aren’t the enemy. They’re messages from your body and mind, often linked to unmet emotional or physical needs. Decoding these messages is the key to breaking free from their hold.
Six Steps to Reclaim Your Power Over Cravings
1. Pause and Breathe
When a craving strikes, pause. Take a deep breath:
Inhale through your nose for four counts.
Hold for four counts.
Exhale slowly for six counts.
This moment of stillness interrupts the autopilot reaction to reach for food and creates space to respond intentionally.
2. Get Curious About Your Craving
Ask yourself, “What exactly am I craving?” Is it something sweet, salty, crunchy, or smooth? Pinpointing the specifics helps you uncover clues about what your body or emotions might be seeking.
3. Tune Into Your Body
Shift your attention inward. Where do you feel the craving? Is it a tightness in your chest? A flutter in your stomach? Observing these sensations without judgment builds a deeper connection with your body.
4. Identify the Emotional Trigger
Cravings often stem from emotions. Reflect on what happened before the craving hit. Were you feeling stressed, bored, or overwhelmed? Recognizing this link can provide powerful insights into what you’re experiencing.
5. Ask What You Truly Need
Here’s the game-changer: instead of automatically reaching for food, ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” It could be rest, comfort, movement, or connection. This reflection opens the door to more nourishing alternatives.
6. Choose with Compassion
If you decide to indulge, do so mindfully. Recognize it as a conscious decision rather than an act of defeat. Approaching cravings with compassion, rather than judgment, transforms them into opportunities for growth and self-awareness.
Cravings as an Invitation
Every time you pause and reflect, you’re reclaiming your power. Cravings are not signs of failure; they’re invitations to listen, reflect, and choose. This mindset shift is central to the Fat2Fierce® program, where you’ll learn actionable tools to break free from food struggles and build a peaceful relationship with your body.
If this resonates with you, my self-paced Fat2Fierce® program offers guidance and support to make these changes sustainable. You’ll discover how to approach food with confidence, compassion, and clarity—on your terms.
Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection
Cravings are not your enemy; they’re messages. By approaching them with curiosity and kindness, you create space to respond in a way that honors your body and emotions.
Remember, this journey is not about perfection—it’s about progress. Each step you take brings you closer to a healthier, more empowered relationship with food.
I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do these tools resonate with you? What’s your experience with cravings? Feel free to reach out at amy@amyenglishcc.com, or explore the Fat2Fierce® program today. And don’t forget to listen to the podcast episode on cravings for even more tools and inspiration.
Together, we can reclaim your power—one craving at a time.
With love and support,
Amy English Creator & Coach | Fat2Fierce®
Empowering women to reclaim their power with food and find peace with their bodies.