127. Pro-Aging, Beauty Standards and Body Liberation w/ Deb Benfield

Full & Thriving: A Podcast for People Pleasers and Perfectionists

ABOUT THIS EPISODEIn this week's episode, Meg talks to Deb, an experienced anti-diet dietitian, about embracing one's true self and the idea of pro-aging. They discuss eating disorders among different age groups, focusing on adolescents, new mothers, and women in menopause. The concept of pro-aging challenges societal norms about aging and thinness, highlighting the harm of pursuing unrealistic standards. Deb shares stories of people who have embraced their authentic selves and emphasizes unlearning the idea of size and beauty as social currency.The episode provides actionable steps for feeling confident while aging and accepting oneself. Deb's views on skincare and wrinkles add depth to the conversation about self-acceptance. They also discuss Tracy Gendra's book "Ageism Unmasked" and explore age bias and ways to overcome it. Deb offers advice for women apprehensive about aging, drawing from her own experience. The episode ends with a call to foster an age-inclusive, pro-aging mindset, providing insights for both younger and older generations to live life fully.ABOUT OUR GUESTDeb Benfield is a seasoned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a remarkable 35-year career dedicated to helping women heal their relationship with food, eating, and their bodies. Rooted in wisdom and personal passion, her work converges at the intersection of pro-aging and body liberation. Guided by trauma-informed principles, Deb’s mission is to create a space where you can find solace and acceptance within your body, recognizing that you are the ultimate authority on your own well-being.As Deb stepped into the liberating phase of being an elder, her journey took a significant turn when she turned 60. Coinciding with becoming a first-time grandmother, these events held profound meaning. The realization that our time on this planet is finite awakened a deeper awareness within her. Simultaneously, she recognized the richness of my life, demanding more of my energy. However, her search was met with frustration as she struggled to find well-researched guidance not centered on weight management or youthful appearance. A glimmer of hope emerged as the pro-aging movement emerged, yet it left out body diversity and respect, upholding conventional beauty ideals. Her intention is to empower you in making choices that amplify your body and mind's optimal functioning, as long as you desire. Deb’s Website: https://www.debrabenfield.com/Deb’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agingbodyliberation/Download and Listen to these free 200 eating disorder recovery affirmations: megmccabe.lpages.co/200-recovery-affirmations/Grab your Full and Thriving Merch!! https://www.etsy.com/shop/RecoveryCollectiveSign up for a free 1:1 coaching consultation with Meghttp://bit.ly/3A1Cw5rThe Recovery Collective In

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