This is not for everybody, but some moms, including me, feel better after watching pimple extraction videos from aestheticians. I feel anxious while it’s happening — holding my breath etc — and then relieved after the blackhead or whatever has been extracted. The repeated tension + release is enough to cool some of my stress, and it’s better than me picking at my own skin or pulling hairs.

If you’re interested, google Enilsa Brown.

I’m sorry, I don’t know how single parents are doing this.

Screaming "Calgon, take me away!" and then taking a bubble bath after the kid is in bed.

But a collection of nice vibrators and put them to use when your child is asleep!

Binge-watching TV shows. I watch in bed (I know, bad), but that way I can't eat in the evening.

I take baths and hot showers. Nice candles, buy myself flowers, invest in great pajamas and loungewear. Get a gorgeous haircut and color. Read a great book. I love food but there are many pleasurable things in life.

There is a book called 50 Ways to Sooth Yourself Without Food

routine. you need a real routine that includes daily exercise. Write it down. Then stick to it! Make sure both your bedtimes are are reasonable. I would suggest some sort of cleanse type diet to get past the "I feel so fat" hump. Whole 30? Find another single parent friend who can be your "pod" and give each other some time off.

Get outside as much as you can, even if it is to walk to and from the mailbox. Fresh air, away from screens, take a walk and "untether" your thoughts.

Try to reframe food-as-comfort. Instead of guiltily inhaling a bowl of chips, mindful,y prepare a meal you will love, like roast chicken and mashed potatoes. Mindfully make brownies or a pie, arms really enjoy every bite. Instead of two glasses of wine, make it one glass, and then fill the glass with ice, sparkling water and lime.

Just breathe and take some time for yourself, whatever small moments you can.

Meditation!! It can be life changing.

I am right there with you. I just bought a box of assorted herbal teas that looked amazing so I am going to try that for an afternoon treat instead of food!

Wine

Bake something delicious. Save a tiny portion for the two of you and gift the rest to someone else. It’s a twofer, you get a portion controlled treat and you make someone else’s day, which will make you feel better.

Paint your nails

Dance party with your kid.
Go for a walk.
Make popcorn (filling, low cal)

But I have gained so much weight. How did I make myself feel better before? I can’t even remember. I’m a single mom with a 3 year old and we’re in a pandemic. The only comforting thing I can think of is food. Can you guys think of something that ISN’T food? (That a single mom of a young child can do.)