• EP 215.5: The 5 Biggest Pitfalls Sabotaging Your Eating Disorder Recovery (& How to Overcome Them) **Must Listen Fav!**
    May 13 2025

    Sister,

    I literally cannot wait to share with you the 5 "D's"....

    What am I talking about?

    The 5 "D's" are what I believe are the BIGGEST challenges you will ever face as you navigate freedom from food & that 'crazy thinking' controlling your every day.

    ~

    In today's replay, I discuss these 5 pitfalls, so that you can recognize where you may be stuck in them...not to shame game you, but to push you to overcome!

    Let's rewind for a minute as I take you back to my own struggle with disordered eating...

    I was lost. Exhausted. Constantly thinking about what I could eat next & when I could eat it. I was miserable. & I spent years in the same wonky cycle trying to convince myself that everything was fine & I was fine....I was far from fine.

    Fast Forward to my "ah-ha"....I hated life & I craved a better way. But in the process of creating more for myself I came across these 5 biggest challenges.

    The only way out girl, was through. & the same goes for you. But the good news is, if you are in the "doldrums" right now, maybe not sure where to turn to next because your mind is constantly filled with thoughts around food & your body, then today's podcast episode will speak straight to your soul.

    But before you go listen, here is a quote to help you hold on to hope today:

    "Remember not to dig up in doubt what you planted in faith." You deserve more sis!

    ~

    Ready to escape the 5 biggest challenges? Don't worry girl, I got you!

    Listen in to discover what these 5 pitfalls are & let me show you the way out to find the true & real you...the BEST you yet!

    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.

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    17 mins
  • EP 215: Why BMI is Total BS! The Scientific Truth About Body Mass Index & Numbers + How to Measure True Health📍
    May 9 2025

    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.

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    14 mins
  • 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
    May 6 2025

    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.

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    15 mins
  • EP 214: When Hearing ‘You Look Healthy’ Hurts + 5 Proven Strategies to Help You Navigate Compliments in Recovery
    May 2 2025

    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.

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    16 mins
  • EP 213: From Body Checking to Soul Checking ~ How Shadow Work Freed Me From Anorexia + Your 11-Question Guide
    Apr 29 2025

    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
    1. What is the biggest lie I tell myself constantly?
    2. What is the story I tell myself about this lie?
    3. When am I the hardest on myself and why?
    4. When have I felt rejected, betrayed, or broken?
    5. What would I say to the person that hurt me?
    6. What makes me feel the most jealous? What do I wish I had that I don't?
    7. What traits do/did my parents have that I hope I don't have?
    8. What are my toxic traits? How do I push those on others?
    9. When I think about my future, what am I most afraid of?
    10. When was the last time that I forgave myself?
    11. 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.

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    24 mins
  • EP 212: What Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder? 6 Powerful Tips to Overcome Body Image Distortion So That You Can Move Beyond the Mirror🪞
    Apr 25 2025

    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:

    1. Practice Mindful Awareness
    2. Challenge Distorted Thinking
    3. Reduce Social Media Comparison
    4. Redirect Your Focus
    5. Practice Body Neutrality
    6. 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.

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    24 mins
  • EP 211: Love or Fear? Answer These Transformative Questions to Heal Your Relationship With Food & Yourself **Must Listen Fav!**
    Apr 22 2025

    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.

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    14 mins
  • EP 210.5: STOP Doing These 10 Things if You Feel Stuck & Chained to Disordered Patterns ~ Part 2
    Apr 18 2025
    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 wisdomRecovery requires challenging your own assumptionsProfessional 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 perfectionismThe essential ingredient isn't more tasks—it's self-compassionAsk: "How can I bring more compassion to this moment?" Stop Avoiding Discomfort The only way out is throughEating disorders themselves are systems for avoiding discomfortRecovery requires moving toward discomfort, not away from itEach time you face discomfort, you build resilience Stop Thinking the Worst Possible Scenario Is Gaining Weight The real worst-case scenario is never experiencing freedomAs long as weight gain remains your greatest fear, the disorder retains powerRecovery may include body changes, but they aren't the catastrophe predictedThere is no wrong choice in recovery—only refusing to make a choice ACTION STEPS Identify which of these 10 patterns is most holding you backChoose one pattern to focus on disrupting this weekPractice moving toward discomfort rather than away from itRevisit your recovery priorities and realign your energy accordinglyConsider 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.
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    15 mins