Chapter 23 - The Case for Integrating Mindfulness in the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Abstract

Sensory motor therapy uses mindfulness-based techniques to increase awareness and acceptance of body sensations and impulses. This technique encourages an increased awareness of the body, particularly the level of arousal, changes in voice, breath, movements, and posture associated with states of wellbeing. A language for describing body states emerges as the therapist notices changes in these. Interventions teach mindfulness, focusing the client on the present experience of core organizers: thoughts, emotions, movement, sensation, and the five senses perceptions with a specific goal of enhancing self-modulation. Mobilization is associated with states of compassion, acceptance, exploration, and self-care. The therapist notices, celebrates, and builds on emerging skills as clients become more able to listen and respond to the body, gradually shifting to a state of wellbeing. These skills are necessary to reduce the dis-regulation associated with very painful memories or emotions. It follows that these techniques may be particularly useful in those who have suffered sexual trauma or who have extreme physical dis-regulation due to eating disorder.