Online Support Group:

Interoception & Sensory Modulation:

A Strategy-Focused Support Group

This ONLINE workshop is for anyone (18+) experiencing an eating disorder, disordered eating,

and/or experiencing anxiety around food, eating, and body image.

**You do not need a diagnosis, or proof of diagnosis, to enroll

**This workshop is open to those with all manner of disordered eating behaviour

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About This group

Over time, individuals struggling with eating disorders or disordered eating may experience a lessened awareness of their body cues; it can become increasingly difficult to recognize and respond to signals like hunger, fullness, and other signs. This disconnect may also extend to one’s emotional awareness and responsiveness as well. The capacity to identify, feel, and respond adaptively to one’s emotions may change, acting as both a precursor to -and a direct consequence of- the disordered eating.

Together, disruptions to these systems may result in food aversion, body mistrust, emotion dysregulation, and the progression of eating disorders. This may be especially challenging for neurodiverse individuals. 

What is interoception and sensory modulation?

  • Interoception is the body’s eighth sensory system that helps connect the body’s physical sensations to our emotions. This workshop aims to increase interoceptive awareness to help participants feel more connected to our bodies.
  • Sensory Modulation helps participants reconnect with their bodies by increasing body awareness through exploration of how sensory experiences and internal cues -such as hunger, fullness, and emotions- affect eating behaviors and overall well-being.

Through practical exercises, mindfulness techniques, and group discussions in this strategy-focused group, participants will deepen their understanding of bodily sensations and learn new, adaptive ways to respond to them.

While this support group is for anyone with eating disorders and disordered eating, it may be of particular relevance for neurodiverse individuals. 

Topics Will Include: 

Understanding Sensory Processing

  • Overview of sensory systems: sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, vestibular, proprioceptive, interoception
  • How sensory processing patterns impacts emotions and behavior.
  • The connection between sensory processing, eating disorders and body image

Sensory Safety 

  • Discussing the importance of sensory safety and how it plays a role in daily life
  • Exploring sensory preferences and expanding on sensory input options
  • Techniques to regulate sensory input for self-soothing or alertness.

 

Exploring Sensory Modulation Strategies

  • Tailoring activities for sensory needs.
  • How to create a sensory-friendly environment at home or work.
  • Building a personal sensory tool kit

Understanding Interoception

  • The concept of interoception: awareness of body signals and the connection to emotions
  • Exploring the role of interoceptive awareness plays in emotional regulation.

Developing Self-Awareness through Interoception

  • Exercises to increase awareness of emotional experiences (hunger, thirst, anxiety, calm).
  • Techniques to help build interoceptive awareness.
  • Journaling or mindfulness activities for tracking bodily sensations.

Reflecting on Interoceptive and Sensory Awareness

  • How sensory systems and interoceptive awareness influence emotional responses.
  • Recognizing early signs of emotional distress through body sensations.
  • Implementing sensory based techniques to help regulate emotions.

 

EDSNA support groups & workshops are always:

  • Professionally-facilitated by people with extensive backgrounds in eating disorders.
  • Intended to support those wishing to continue on the path of recovery in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
  • Limited to a small number of participants to allow everyone to participate fully.

PLEASE NOTE: This workshop is intended as support, and is not a substitute for treatment. We encourage you to speak with your Physician about treatment options specific to your circumstances. 

Workshop Details:

Individuals interested in participating DO NOT require proof of diagnosis. This workshop is open to those with all manner of disordered eating behaviour.

Dates:

  • Feb 11, 18, 25
  • Mar 4, 11, 18, 25

Time:

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm (18:00 – 20:00 MST)

Location:

Online via Zoom, details sent separately*

Cost:

Free!

This workshop is offered at no cost to participants; however, participants are welcome to make a donation to EDSNA if they wish. A donation is not required to join the group.

Facilitator:

Sara Kreklewich, Occupational Therapist

Additional Information:

*A computer/laptop/tablet and internet access are required to participate. The link to access the session will be sent separately, on the day the scheduled group or workshop is set to begin.

About Your Facilitator

Sara Kreklewich

Occupational Therapist

Sara is the Disorder Eating Consultant for Central Alberta. She is also a Registered Occupational Therapist with over ten years experience.

She is passionate about the area of mental health and believes in empowering clients to achieve their goals. She currently works in hospital and community mental health settings and has diverse skills, training and experience. 

Sara has a strong interest and knowledge base in the area of disordered eating, depression, anxiety and relationship issues.

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