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💌 February Newsletter: Compassion Over Comparison


February is Eating Disorder Awareness Month, a time to honor the courage it takes to face disordered eating, to share resources, and to foster community and understanding. This month, we’re leaning into a theme that feels especially important: compassion versus comparison.


Comparison can feel automatic and convincing in recovery, but it often pulls us away from our own healing journey. Compassion, on the other hand, invites us to notice, pause, and meet ourselves where we are. This month’s newsletter is full of tools, inspiration, and resources to help you cultivate compassion in your recovery.


🌟 Featured Blog Post: “Comparison Is a Distraction, Not Direction”


Our new blog post explores how comparison shows up in recovery, why it can feel so strong, and how self-compassion can help interrupt the cycle.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Why comparison is so common in eating disorder recovery

  • Research-backed strategies for noticing and shifting comparison

  • Gentle ways to return your focus inward and cultivate self-compassion


“Your recovery is not a competition. It is allowed to unfold in its own timing.”

🎉 Upcoming Event: Self-Care Fair


I’m excited to co-host a Self-Care Fair focused on exploring self-care in eating disorder recovery!

  • When: Monday - 02/23/26

  • Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM

  • Where: 13304 West Center Rd. Ste 230, Omaha, NE 68144


This interactive event will provide practical tools, demonstrations, and discussions about self-care that support your recovery journey. Come learn, connect, and practice compassion for yourself in a welcoming, supportive environment.


📚 Recommended Reading


This month, we recommend books and articles that support compassion, body acceptance, and mindful recovery:


  1. Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff – Practical ways to treat yourself with kindness, especially in moments of struggle.


  2. Body Respect by Lindo Bacon & Lucy Aphramor – Focuses on respecting your body rather than judging it.


  3. The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor – Inspires radical self-acceptance and challenges social comparison.


🎧 Podcast Episodes to Explore


These episodes dive into compassion, recovery, and breaking free from comparison:


  • The Recovery Warrior Podcast – Episode: “Letting Go of Comparison in Recovery”


  • Food Psych Podcast with Christy Harrison – Episode: “Self-Compassion as a Recovery Tool”


  • The Therapy Chat Podcast – Episode: “How Social Comparison Impacts Mental Health”


✍ Journal Prompts for Reflection


Try these prompts this month to lean into compassion and reduce comparison:

  1. What would I say to a friend who is feeling this level of self-criticism?

  2. Where have I noticed comparison today, and how can I redirect that energy inward?

  3. Name one small act of self-compassion I can offer myself right now.

  4. List three things my body does for me that have nothing to do with appearance.


💖 February Reminder


This month, as we honor Eating Disorder Awareness Month, remember:

Comparison may promise clarity, yet your recovery grows through compassion, consistency, and support.

You are allowed to heal at your own pace, in your own way. You do not need to measure yourself against anyone else.


With compassion,


Courtney Liester



Disclaimer: This newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or individualized treatment. If you are struggling with an eating disorder or body image concerns, please consult with a licensed mental health professional or qualified medical provider. If you are in crisis, seek immediate medical or emergency support.

 
 
 

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