The Psychology of Restriction: Why We Fear Taking Up Space

In this episode, Alana delves into the lesser-discussed side of food struggles—the fear of fullness and the fantasy that hunger means safety. She unpacks how the desire for emptiness often masks deeper emotional needs for control and order, especially among women who hold themselves to high standards. Alana explores the nervous system’s connection to restriction, the emotional roots behind fearing fullness, and how fullness itself can trigger vulnerability, shame, or a sense of taking up too much space. By tracing these patterns back to childhood experiences and societal messages, Alana guides listeners toward reframing fullness—not as failure, but as feedback and self-nourishment. Tune in as Alana offers practical steps to move from survival-driven restriction toward self-trust and a healthier, more trusting relationship with food and your body.Leave us a voice message for our next Q&A episode!Curious to learn more about working directly with Alana so that you can reconnect with your hunger and fullness cues, learn to eat whatever you want without rules, regulate your emotions and naturally lose weight so you can live with freedom and joy? Get started HERE! The Craving Reset Library is your on-demand toolkit for breaking emotional eating patterns in real time—without relying on willpower or rules. Inside, you’ll find fast-acting audio tools designed to interrupt cravings, regulate your nervous system, and retrain your brain to feel calm, clear, and in control. Whether it’s a 3-minute urge or a full-blown binge cycle, these resets put you back in charge. Click here to access the Craving Reset Audio Library and take control in the moment it matters most.Explore more from Be Well by AKBe sure to follow Alana on Instagram at @bewellbyak.TakeawaysDesire often comes with feelings of unworthiness and shame.Many women feel they must earn their desires through struggle.Societal expectations can lead to downplaying one's desires.Self-betrayal is a common coping strategy for women.Practicing permission is essential for self-acceptance.Chapters00:00 Understanding Desire and Shame04:45 The Impact of Societal Expectations on Women10:19 The Connection Between Desire and Self-Betrayal17:31 Practicing Permission and Self-Acceptance24:04 Reclaiming Your Right to Desire

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