Thoughts and body: inextricably linked
Our mind and body form a single, integrated system. What happens in your mind, such as repetitive worries or ruminations, unconsciously activates your body's stress system. This process is known as "perseverative cognition": the constant reliving or anticipation of stressful events. Research shows that this persistent thought activity leads to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, even when there is no immediate threat.
The role of the HPA axis and cortisol
When your body experiences a stressful stimulus, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis initiates a chain reaction that culminates in the release of cortisol. This hormone is designed to make you alert and energetic in acute situations. However, with chronic stress or persistent negative thoughts, the HPA axis remains activated. Long-term elevated cortisol levels promote fat storage, particularly around the abdominal area, and inhibit fat burning.
From thinking to eating: the pitfall of 'comfort food'
Cortisol influences not only fat storage but also your appetite. Research shows that elevated cortisol levels lead to a preference for energy-rich, fatty, and sweet foods. These "comfort foods" offer temporary relief by stimulating the release of dopamine and endorphins, but they also contribute to weight gain and a disrupted relationship with food.
Awareness as the first step
Recognizing that thoughts have a direct physical impact is crucial. By pausing to observe your automatic thought patterns without judgment, you can break the chain of stress activation.
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Our "Think Slim" program immerses you in the psychological and neurobiological mechanisms underlying eating behavior and body image for 12 weeks. By combining theories of self-regulation and reward systems with mindfulness and body-oriented exercises, you'll learn not only why you tend to reach for comfort foods when stressed, but also how to break these unconscious patterns.
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Guided meditations and visualizations focused on self-compassion and body awareness, which help you reduce the grip of critical thoughts on your self-image.
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Reflection and action questions that help you explore which emotional needs food fulfills for you and how you can meet them in a healthy way.
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Interactive worksheets that give you step-by-step insight into your own thinking and eating patterns, based on the latest insights in cognitive behavioral therapy.
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