Observing Yom Kippur in Eating Disorder Recovery
Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish community. Set during the tenth day in the month of Tishrei, the objective is to strengthen one’s spirituality, often by abstaining from worldly pleasures such as eating and drinking. Although this is a sacred day of reflection and repentance, the holiday can bring about a heightened sense of anxiety for many people in the Jewish community. The intense focus on eating habits is often reminiscent of eating disorder behaviors and can be triggering for those struggling or in recovery.
Eating Disorders in the Jewish Community
Many religions follow customs and practices that adhere to their culture and beliefs. Whether it relates to eating meals with others, prayer, or even clothing, these factors can have an impact on someone’s life. However, a religion’s traditional food practices may cause some observers of that religion to experience disordered eating and eating disorders.