The distorted body image aspect of an eating disorder is typically the last thing to change. I often think that eating disorders can be symbolized by two warring parts inside of us. One part tells us we’re fat and disgusting and the other — our staunch supporter — will go to whatever lengths it takes to convince us we’re not. When we finally begin to feel better about ourself and eat more normally, it’s as if our inner supporter needs to put us to the test for awhile. I can picture her crossing her arms, tapping her foot and saying, “Here. Look in the mirror and see only fat and we’ll see if you’re going to cave in and feel bad about yourself again or if you’re REALLY cured.” The reality is that no one has a perfect body. Learning to appreciate and respect who we are — including our physical appearances — is an extremely important part of the healing process.