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Treatment Options - Movement Therapy
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Movement Therapy in the Treatment of Eating Disorders
Movement therapy, also referred to as dance/movement therapy or creative arts therapy, has been a longstanding component in a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of eating disorders. This form of therapy is uniquely suited for those suffering from the symptoms of eating disorders since the goal is to directly engage the body as an ally in the therapy process. Movement Therapy supports a decrease in eating disorder behaviors and the development of a healthy body image. It utilizes body-centered and mindfulness-based processes which bypass defenses that talking reinforces. Nonverbal exploration of, and through, the body leads to integration of the body/mind and allows for positive body attitudes and experiences.
Body image consists of our visual and physical perceptions of our bodies as well as our feelings and thoughts about our bodies. Body image forms gradually, beginning in infancy, and is affected by a range of factors throughout our lives including culture and interpersonal experiences. Body image disturbance occurs when there is a significant dissatisfaction with part or all of one’s body and/or a distorted perception of one’s size and shape. Body image disturbances often precede eating disorder behaviors and continue to remain active once the individual has begun to manage other symptoms.
People suffering from eating disorders and body image disturbances describe feeling alienated or disconnected from their bodies. When our body is the enemy, this rejection reinforces maintenance of symptoms such as bingeing, purging, restricting and/or compulsive exercising. Recovery involves internalization of new and positive sensory experiences. Recognition of distorted thoughts and attitudes as well as increased awareness, expression or containment of feelings are initiated in the body. Safe exploration of the body using movement therapy can transform a negative body image by integrating sensory, cognitive and emotional experiences into a cohesive body/mind whole.
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