Her Best Self | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, Disordered Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Orthorexia, Body Image, Food Freedom, Calorie Counting, Obsessive Exercise, Food Restriction

EP 215: Why BMI is Total BS! The Scientific Truth About Body Mass Index & Numbers + How to Measure True Health📍

In this powerful episode of Her Best SELF podcast, we dismantle the widely misused BMI scale and reveal why this outdated measurement has no place in your recovery journey. Learn the problematic origins of BMI, the scientific evidence against its validity, and discover more meaningful ways to understand health and healing while navigating eating disorder recovery.
What You'll Learn:
The surprising origin story of BMI (it wasn't created by health professionals!)
Scientific studies proving BMI is an inaccurate measure of individual health
Why BMI disproportionately harms certain populations and body types
Better alternatives for understanding your body's health during recovery
Practical tips for responding when healthcare providers focus on BMI
How releasing attachment to numbers supports lasting recovery
Research Mentioned:
International Journal of Obesity study on metabolic health markers
Journal of the American Medical Association research on BMI and mortality rates
University of Pennsylvania research on ethnic differences in body composition
Quotes from the Episode: "Your body is not a math problem to be solved. Your worth is not determined by where you fall on a chart created for 19th-century population statistics."
"True health is about how your body functions, not how you measure against an arbitrary mathematical formula."
Recovery Action Step: The next time someone tries to reduce your health to a BMI number, remember the science backing why this measurement is fundamentally flawed. Practice responding with confidence about your commitment to more meaningful health markers in your recovery.
I hope you enjoy today's show!
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

EP 214.5: Some Rules are Meant to be Broken ~ Food Rules, Diet Rules, Bargaining NO MORE! Here is the Path to True Recovery & Freedom

Eleanor Roosevelt said, "Well behaved women rarely make history".
Sis, it's time you make history!
It's time to lay down those nagging thoughts about food that are controlling your life once & for all.
In today’s of the podcast, I share with you many of the food rules I struggled with in my own personal path to freedom. I share how you can identify the rules no longer serving you that are keeping you stuck. & I discuss how you can introduce food exposures to challenge your current rules living you trapped.
~
Each time you make a new scary choice to go agaisnt one of your food rules, your brain becomes less terrified & more accepting. This is HUGE in recovery!
Rules are meant to keep us safe, but disordered rules actually generate harm.
You are meant for MORE.
You are meant to live a life without chains of food rules.
Let me show you the way!
~
Ready to break those rules? share today's episode with someone you love!
& remember that you are made for a life FREE from the chains of disordered eating.
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

EP 214: When Hearing ‘You Look Healthy’ Hurts + 5 Proven Strategies to Help You Navigate Compliments in Recovery

In this heartfelt episode, we tackle the complicated emotions that arise when someone says "you look healthy" during eating disorder recovery. Drawing from personal experience, Lindsey provides compassionate guidance and practical strategies to process these well-intentioned comments without letting them derail your recovery journey.
In This Episode:
[00:00] Introduction: Why "you look healthy" can feel triggering in recovery
[02:15] The powerful quote that reframes what "healthy" truly means
[04:30] Understanding our emotional reaction to appearance comments
[06:45] Strategy #1: The Pause and Reframe
[08:30] Strategy #2: The Curiosity Approach
[10:15] Strategy #3: The Gratitude Pivot
[12:00] Strategy #4: The Feeling Validation
[13:45] Strategy #5: The Recovery Identity Reminder
[15:30] The reality of progress: It's not linear, but it is possible
[17:00] This week's challenge: Creating your personal definition of health
[18:30] Closing thoughts and resources
Key Takeaways:
"Healthy" isn't a code word for weight gain—it encompasses mental clarity, emotional presence, and overall vitality
Learning to separate appearance comments from your self-worth is a crucial recovery skill
Practical techniques like curiosity, reframing, and validation can help manage triggering moments
Recovery progress isn't about never feeling triggered—it's about developing new response patterns
Your authentic self-returning is what people are often really noticing and celebrating
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
 

EP 213: From Body Checking to Soul Checking ~ How Shadow Work Freed Me From Anorexia + Your 11-Question Guide

In this deeply personal episode, Lindsey explores how shadow work can help those struggling with eating disorders, particularly anorexia and restrictive eating patterns. This episode provides a guided assignment for listeners to explore the deeper emotional roots of their disordered eating, designed to be completed in a quiet, private space. Through 11 powerful questions, Lindsey invites you to shine light on the shadows that may be manifesting through your relationship with food and your body.
In This Episode
Lindsey's personal story about living with anorexia and the hidden emotional pain it masked
Introduction to shadow work as a complementary practice to professional eating disorder treatment
11 reflective questions to help identify the deeper wounds and needs behind disordered eating
Guidance on approaching this work with self-compassion and patience
The Shadow Work Questions
What is the biggest lie I tell myself constantly?
What is the story I tell myself about this lie?
When am I the hardest on myself and why?
When have I felt rejected, betrayed, or broken?
What would I say to the person that hurt me?
What makes me feel the most jealous? What do I wish I had that I don't?
What traits do/did my parents have that I hope I don't have?
What are my toxic traits? How do I push those on others?
When I think about my future, what am I most afraid of?
When was the last time that I forgave myself?
What does happiness mean to me?
Resources Mentioned
Journaling supplies (recommended for completing the shadow work assignment)
Finding a quiet, private space like a park bench for reflection
Important Note
This episode is meant to complement, not replace, professional treatment for eating disorders. If you're struggling with an eating disorder, please reach out to a healthcare professional for support.
Resources Mentioned:
www.herbestself.co  - Work with Lindsey one-on-one
www.herbestselfsociety.com  - Join our supportive community
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

EP 212: What Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder? 6 Powerful Tips to Overcome Body Image Distortion So That You Can Move Beyond the Mirror🪞

In this eye-opening episode, Lindsey Nichol tackles Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and its significant overlap with eating disorders. Learn how to recognize BDD patterns, understand its impact on your daily life, and discover practical strategies to break free from appearance obsessions and reclaim your joy.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What Body Dysmorphic Disorder really is and how it differs from normal insecurity
The surprising statistics: 25-39% of those with eating disorders also experience BDD
Ella's inspiring journey from daily mirror checking to finding freedom and presence in the things that matter most to her
6 powerful, actionable strategies to begin healing from BDD today
Why your body was never meant to be your life's work, but to champion you in doing your life's work
Transformative quotes:
"Your body was never meant to be your life's work. It was meant to champion you in doing your life's work." - Lindsey Nichol
"Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." - Coco Chanel
"You can't hate yourself happy. You can't criticize yourself thin. You can't shame yourself worthy. Real change begins with self-love and self-care." - Jessica Ortner
The 6 Practical Strategies Covered:
Practice Mindful Awareness
Challenge Distorted Thinking
Reduce Social Media Comparison
Redirect Your Focus
Practice Body Neutrality
Seek Professional Support
Resources Mentioned:
www.herbestself.co - Work with Lindsey one-on-one
herbestselfsociety.com - Join our supportive community
If you're tired of obsessing over perceived flaws that others don't notice, constantly checking your appearance, or avoiding social situations because of body image concerns, this episode provides the compassionate guidance and practical tools you need to begin healing.
Subscribe now and take the first step toward freedom from appearance obsessions! 💕 #BodyDysmorphicDisorder #BodyImage #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfLove
Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it.
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

EP 211: Love or Fear? Answer These Transformative Questions to Heal Your Relationship With Food & Yourself **Must Listen Fav!**

Hey there!
Did you know that there are only 2 emotions that impact every choice you make & ever action you take?
Wild right?!
So what are they? 
Well...without giving away all the goods, I'll encourage you to listen in to Episode 211, which is one of my favorite episodes that I wanted to replay for you on the Her Best Self Podcast so that you can hear for yourself!
If you are tired of doing the same thing & you find yourself stuck in confusion, or terrified of the "what-ifs", then today's show is perfect for you!
In this episode I discuss the power of understanding which emotion is leading your current reality, so that you can CHANGE the game & start living as the best version of you.
~
Emotion is energy IN MOTION.... you actually create what you fear.
Let that one sink in!
& come join us on the show!
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
 

EP 210.5: STOP Doing These 10 Things if You Feel Stuck & Chained to Disordered Patterns ~ Part 2

If you're feeling stuck in your recovery journey, Episode 210.5, shares the top hidden barriers that might be keeping you chained to eating disorder patterns - and how to break free once and for all.
IN THIS EPISODE
Things to Stop Doing:
Stop Assuming You Always Know What's Best
Eating disorders thrive on the illusion of expertise
"I know what's best" is often the disorder speaking, not your wisdom
Recovery requires challenging your own assumptions
Professional guidance provides perspective you can't see from within
Stop Believing the Lie That You Aren't Doing Enough to Recover
Recovery isn't about doing more; it's about being more
"Never enough" mentality leads to recovery perfectionism
The essential ingredient isn't more tasks—it's self-compassion
Ask: "How can I bring more compassion to this moment?"
Stop Avoiding Discomfort
The only way out is through
Eating disorders themselves are systems for avoiding discomfort
Recovery requires moving toward discomfort, not away from it
Each time you face discomfort, you build resilience
Stop Thinking the Worst Possible Scenario Is Gaining Weight
The real worst-case scenario is never experiencing freedom
As long as weight gain remains your greatest fear, the disorder retains power
Recovery may include body changes, but they aren't the catastrophe predicted
There is no wrong choice in recovery—only refusing to make a choice
ACTION STEPS
Identify which of these 10 patterns is most holding you back
Choose one pattern to focus on disrupting this week
Practice moving toward discomfort rather than away from it
Revisit your recovery priorities and realign your energy accordingly
Consider whether professional support could help you break these patterns
 
Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it.
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

EP 210: STOP Doing These 10 Things if You Feel Stuck & Chained to Disordered Patterns ~ Part 1

If you're feeling stuck in your recovery journey, this part 1 of a 2 part episode shares the top hidden barriers that might be keeping you chained to eating disorder patterns - and how to break free once and for all.
IN THIS EPISODE
Things to Stop Doing:
Stop Waiting for Perfect Circumstances
There will never be a "perfect time" to heal
Recovery happens IN life, not separate from it
The waiting game is another form of control and perfectionism
Recovery requires a decision, not ideal conditions
Stop Spending Time and Energy on Things That Aren't Recovery Priorities
Your time and energy are your most precious recovery resources
Identify where you're "leaking energy" through triggering activities
Ask yourself: Does this support my healing or undermine it?
Recovery requires intentional redirection of your resources
Stop Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else
Comparison is a recovery killer
You're comparing your behind-the-scenes to others' highlight reels
Your recovery journey is unique to your body and history
The only valuable comparison is to your yesterday self
Stop Changing Course - Results Take Time and Commitment
Recovery isn't a race; it's a journey
"Recovery whiplash" prevents momentum and lasting change
Recovery tools are like muscles - they get stronger with consistent use
Before abandoning your approach, ask if you've given it a fair chance
Stop Thinking You're So Out of the Ordinary
You are not the only person who has ever navigated this
The core patterns of eating disorders are remarkably consistent
Feeling "uniquely broken" becomes an excuse to stay stuck
Connection to others with shared experiences is powerful medicine
Stop Thinking Short Term
You deserve lasting freedom, not just getting through the next meal
Short-term focus can lead to decisions that undermine long-term healing
Recovery requires balancing daily work with a vision of what you're working toward
Think in terms of years, not just days
Remember, you are NOT your eating disorder and you are worthy of a life that is FREE from it.
Come back on Friday, to listen to the 2nd part of Episode 210, where I unravel the remaining 4 things for you to stop doing today! Until then, sending recovery hugs.
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
 

EP 209: Use the R.A.I.N. Method to Quiet Those Eating Disorder Thoughts in Just 5 Minutes a Day☔

In this episode, I discuss the importance of making yourself the priority in recovery and I introduce the powerful RAIN method. This method can be used just 5 minutes a day for practicing mindfulness and self-compassion during difficult moments in your eating disorder recovery journey.
Your Assignment is YOU
This season is about planting seeds for your own growth and healing
You need permission to make your recovery the priority
Self-care isn't self-indulgence—it's essential recovery work
Recovery takes root when you commit to "watering your garden first"
The Seasons of Recovery
We expect constant productivity from ourselves but don't apply the same standards to nature
There are natural seasons for growth, rest, and transformation
The eating disorder thrives when you're depleted and exhausted
Rest and self-nurturing create the conditions for healing
What It Means to "Water Yourself"
Providing consistent, adequate nourishment without food rules
Hydration—both literal and metaphorical waters of connection
Exposure to things that bring joy and remind you who you are
Rest periods where you're simply being, not producing
The RAIN Method Breakdown
Recognize what's happening in the moment without judgment
Notice triggers, urges, thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations
Name what you're experiencing to create space between you and the experience
Allow the experience to be there without trying to fix or change it
Stop fighting against difficult emotions or thoughts
Break the cycle of shame by acknowledging "this is what's happening right now"
Investigate with kindness and curiosity
Ask gentle questions: "What triggered this?" "What am I really needing?"
Notice where you feel sensations in your body
Identify the stories you're telling yourself
Nurture yourself with self-compassion
Offer yourself what you truly need in the moment
Speak to yourself as you would to a dear friend
Remember that difficult feelings will pass
I hope Episode 209 blesses you & that you share it with someone else who may benefit!
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
 

EP 208.5: When Wanting Control, Controls You ~ Break the Cycle of Food Obsession, Restriction, & Emotional Eating for Good

Hey there sister friend!
I am so ready to embrace this new week. The boys & I are on spring break & we are loving it! We are enjoying getting away from the usual routines & mundane schedules. This week we are surrendering all control & embracing spontaneous adventures. Which at one point, would have been my controlling nature, which had me thinking about CONTROL. So I knew I must revisit a previous episode & bring it back to the top of your pod listens!
in Episode 208.5 of the podcast, I share what you need to know about control. I discuss the Restrict/Emotional Eating Cycle & how you can start today to break the habit loop in your life.
~
Here is what you need to know: in order to let go of control, you must release the fight within you. The battle in your mind is REAL! & it's the hardest one you will ever conquer. 
But the good news is, you have the power right now inside of you to surrender your desire to control food, so that you can gain freedom from what is actually controlling you. Freedom from ED 🎉
I believe in you! Now go out & listen to Episode 132 to help you do the same. 
xo,
lindsey
Find All the Things -＞ wwww.herbestself.co
______
Coach with Me -＞Client Application
______
Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com
______
Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com
______Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don’t have to do this alone!Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it!
Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let’s work together -> Client Application
Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you!YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS!
* While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.