I find myself binging every night in front of the TV once the kids go to bed. I know it's wrong, but I can't seem to stop. It's the only time of day I have for myself. I've tried keeping busy with art projects and other things, but I always end up eating. What can I do?

Freud once defined a well-adjusted person as someone who could successfully love and work. Missing from his definition was good self-care, from which you derive the energy to nurture relationships and to focus on your work. Self-care is the foundation upon which the other two priorities are built.

Good self-care is taking care of yourself consistently in all areas of your life, including physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. All of these areas are interrelated. For example, if you do not take care of yourself emotionally, you may develop physical symptoms such as overeating or social issues such as resentment and isolation.

Good self-care involves recognizing and appreciating the ebb and flow of life, the need to pace yourself day-by-day so that you're consistently functioning well over the long haul. The book Life Strategies by noted psychologist Phil McGraw, PhD presents 10 effective activities to help you take control of the most challenging aspects of your life and begin to live the lifestyle you truly desire. Or you may prefer the approach outlined in Life Makeovers: 52 practical and Inspiring Ways to Improve Your Life One Week at a Time by Cheryl Richards.

For more information about developing good self-care, refer to the module "Achieving Balance."

Achieving Balance © 2002 Novartis Nutrition Corporation