Stepping In to Embrace Body Freedom and Heal from Eating Disorders and Body Dysmorphia with Rachel Gossett

Written By Kara Stoltenberg

In this episode, Kara steps in with Rachel Gossett, a breathwork facilitator and reiki master, to explore her story of healing from a 33-year journey with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia. Given the instability in her home, as a young girl Rachel longed for love and acceptance. In 7th grade when she was being bullied and made fun of for the way she looked, she began to think if she could change that it would bring her that love and acceptance she craved. Restricting her eating became a way to control life around her. Kara and Rachel engage in an honest conversation about the societal pressures and early experiences that can shape our perceptions of our bodies, and Rachel shares the pivotal moments and shifts in perspective that guided her toward recovery and now allow her to support others on their own healing paths. Rachel gives ideas for engaging with teens if you are concerned around their body perception or food behaviors. If you are navigating challenges with your body image or disordered eating, this episode offers profound hope and practical insights.

Highlights:

  • Rachel's first memory of becoming aware of her body was at seven years old, highlighting how early body image issues can begin.

  • The impact of well-intentioned but potentially harmful messaging around appearance, even from a young age, is explored.

  • Rachel shares how the "spinning" of constant body preoccupation eventually stopped as she moved further into her healing journey.

  • Discover the power of breathwork as a tool for connecting with the body and processing stored emotions that can contribute to body image struggles.

  • Rachel emphasizes the importance of shifting the internal narrative and consciously choosing thoughts that support self-acceptance and well-being.

Quotes:

  • "And so much of it is the story we tell ourselves. And can we change the story? Can we start to be kinder to ourselves in the story?"

  • “With the power of belief…. Intention… and breath healing is possible.”

  • “You do not have to live with this forever.”

Connect with Rachel:

Rachel Gossett is a trauma-informed breathwork facilitator, Reiki Master, and Body Freedom Coach. After healing from 30+ years of disordered eating and body dysmorphia, she now helps others build a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Through somatic practices, Rachel supports her clients in shedding shame, reconnecting with themselves, and reclaiming the freedom to be fully seen.

Kara Stoltenberg
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Stepping In to Hope: From Brokenness to Self-Acceptance with Dr. Karen Hyden