A Holistic Approach for Working with Female Athletes Suffering from Eating Disorders
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Authors
Brody, Lisa M.
Issue Date
2005
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This paper is designed to educate young athletes, coaches, and parents about the development of eating disorders, potential ways of treating them, and preventing them from reaching serious levels. It is written from the perspective of an ice skating coach of young athletes who was an ice skater herself, and who developed an eating disorder at age 16. This project examines the high prevalence of disordered eating among female athletes who participate in aesthetically judged sports. The proposed causes of eating disorders will be explained along with a personal story which illustrates how an eating disorder can develop and then be ultimately healed by using a holistic model.
The holistic model presented is an individualized approach geared toward helping a young athlete find her essence and authentic self, and thereby to ultimately heal. There will be a discussion of how to access and honor the body's innate wisdom of knowing exactly what it needs in order to heal. Various holistic modalities will be presented, including somatic psychology, applied kinesiology, body and energy work, and developing a spiritual outlook. These practices address the
whole person as one of mind, body, and spirit, and are presented as suggestions for guiding the athlete back to her true self.