In eating disorder treatment exercise is often not allowed.
Learn why one patient found that delayed her recovery.
Experts in This Article
dance and movement therapist
you should probably have a seat.
I had been standing while talking on the phone with my mom, when the staff member interrupted.
Standing wasnt the only forbidden activity at the facility.
I didnt even realize I was doing it; the motion just felt soothing.
dance and movement therapist
Almost immediately, a therapist rushed over, signaling for me to stop.
It didnt matter that I had been self-soothingmy coping skill wasnt allowed.
Why eating disorder treatment centers restrict movement
Whats behind providers insistence on not allowing patients to move?
Those with restrictive eating disorders may truly not be fueling their bodies enough to allow for anything strenuous.
Fanelli adds that another major concern for centers is liability.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
It just becomes another control mechanism, she says.
Is that really recovery?
In contrast, when Im not in treatment, joyful movement has been a key part of my recovery.
dance and movement therapist
A better way forward
Its a natural human impulse to desire some kind of physical activity.
Fortunately, not all eating disorder treatment centers follow this policy.
Its like rebuilding a friendship with someone who has hurt us, and working to repair that connection.
Fanelli adds that yoga can also be a helpful transition exercise.
At Within Health, Dr. Oliver-Pyatt says patients begin to move gradually and with support of a provider.
But if people dont learn that while in treatment, they may never learn it all their life.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
