Mind, Body, Spirit: An Integrative Approach to Eating Disorder Treatment

At The Balance, we use both top-down and bottom-up approaches to treating eating disorders. We tackle not just the symptoms but the root causes of the issue. We work to support changes at the brain level with attention to mental, somatic, and spiritual issues. We define spirituality as having a sense of self and being connected to the world. It has to do with our relationships, both with ourselves and others.

No matter what disorder we are treating—anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder—we see a deep sense of detachment to what’s going on inside of them. This detachment happens on an emotional and physical level. That detachment means they are not in touch with themselves. We aim to restore that safe connection to the self through various techniques.

We use a Polyvagal theory-informed approach with techniques like the Safe and Sound Protocol, which focuses on using music to stimulate the vagus nerve. By regulating the nervous system, we can slowly restore the body to a state of safety. We know that the last thing individuals with eating disorders want to be asked is how they feel or what they are sensing in their bodies. This can be very threatening to them. When we work with the nervous system before the brain, we allow the client to reconnect to themselves without being re-traumatized.

From there, we address the neurobiological roots of the disorder that are interfering with the core structure of the self. These are the early roots of the individual. If we don’t consider this, the individual cannot get better.  

In order to effectively treat eating disorders, it requires a holistic, cross-method approach. At The Balance, we work with techniques like integrative medicine, systemic therapy, the IFS model, somatic experiencing, and safe and sound protocol. We work with mindfulness techniques like yoga, breath work, sound healing, Qi Kung, and massage. We address the family dynamics, and work to build up healthy communication tactics within the family system.

Techniques we use to treat Eating Disorders:

• Functional & Integrative Medicine 
• Nutritional Support and Supplement Plans 
• System Therapy, IFS Work, and CBT 
• Somatic Experiencing 
• Safe & Sound Protocol 
• ROLFING 
• Physical Therapy & Personal Training
• Mindfulness-based practices: Qi Kung, yoga, breath work, massage, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage
• Sound Healing 
• Art, Music & Equine Therapy 
• Family Dynamics, Couples Therapy