Two weeks ago, I could not stop stuffing my face.

It was as if my hunger was insatiable. I never felt satisfied. Yes, the food tasted delicious, but my brain never reached a level of true enjoyment.

I don’t know why I kept eating and eating.

Maybe it’s because I wanted to feel content. Happy. Fulfilled.

I’m pretty sure I convinced myself that if I was stuffed to the brim, I would feel as if I was on top of the world.

I didn’t listen to my body or give it what it actually needed. Simply put, I was a glutton.

But since I set my 2011 goals, I haven’t had to deal with binges.

Having goals and actually working towards them helps me in making better decisions.

Does that box of chocolate look tempting? It sure does, but it won’t help me run faster. It won’t help me build muscle. It won’t help me to do push-ups.

I’ve been cooking at home more. I’ve been consciously thinking about my food. I’ve been bringing my Little Bag That Could to class almost every day.

I’ve found time to go to the gym. I’ve made exercise and training a priority. I’ve created time for myself.

And by being active, by persistently working towards my goals, I’ve somehow managed to curb my hunger.

I haven’t felt the need to shovel food into my mouth. I haven’t felt any cravings. I haven’t found food irresistible.

Is it the endorphins from exercise?
I don’t know for sure, but I’ll bet that there’s a strong correlation.

Is it the better choice of foods?
Most likely. I’m eating more protein, tons of vegetables, and not over-indulging.

It’s funny how much easier it is to find balance when you’re happy with yourself.

I’m learning to drop the past two months. No, not forget it, but I won’t beat myself up any more.

I am making progress, however slow it might seem at the moment. I’m trying my best. I’m finding time for me.

I’ve realized that this “hunger”, this urge to binge, usually occurs when I don’t make time for myself, when I just succumb to pressure and stress instead of doing something about it and finding an outlet.

Instead of using food as my outlet, I’m channeling my anger, frustrations, and stress into kicking ass at the gym.

 
But, I’ve been wondering…

When I slack off on exercising, when I ditch my training goals, I feel as if I’m always hungry, as if I could eat everything in sight.

But when I establish a workout routine and plan my training schedule, that insatiable feeling of hunger disappears. I’m no longer thinking about food constantly. I’m no longer planning what I want to eat next. I’m no longer craving fried foods, cookies or ice cream.

Does exercise help to restore a sense of physical and mental balance?

What are your thoughts on this?

How do you curb your insatiable hunger?