Nina Savelle-Rocklin: The Power of Mindful Eating - Changing Your Relationship with Food for Good

In my recent conversation with Dr. Nina Savelle-Rocklin—author, speaker, and psychoanalyst specializing in binge eating—we explored the profound insight that eating disorders are not about food, but about emotional needs and coping mechanisms. Dr. Nina shared her powerful personal story of overcoming multiple eating disorders without ever discussing food in therapy. Instead, she focused on healing her relationship with herself, transforming her inner critic, and understanding the psychological roots of her behaviors. Her message was clear: it’s not about willpower—it’s about why-power.

Dr. Nina emphasized the importance of becoming a “detective of the mind,” uncovering the emotional triggers and unmet needs that drive behaviors like binge eating. She shared the story of a client who believed she was a food addict, only to discover that her cravings were actually tied to unresolved pain around her sister, triggered by a TV episode. This story illustrated that food is often used as a coping mechanism to numb, distract, or soothe discomfort—and once those emotional needs are acknowledged and addressed, the compulsive behavior can diminish or disappear.

As we approach a new year, Dr. Nina encouraged listeners not to set goals around diets or restrictive behavior, but to deepen their understanding of themselves. Her book The Binge Cure and its companion workbook guide readers through cultivating self-compassion, identifying triggers, and building a healthier relationship with their thoughts and emotions. Ultimately, Dr. Nina’s approach is about liberation, not recovery—moving beyond the cycle of shame and self-criticism, and stepping into a life of emotional freedom, self-awareness, and lasting change.

Listen to the full episode here! 🎧✨ Youtube | Spotify | Apple