Exploring the meaning of food
Explore the psychological meaning of food and gain awareness around patterns of eating. Examine how the ways in which we respond to food may be dictated by trans-generational messages and early childhood experiences.
Key course information
Dates
01/10/11 - 02/10/11
Day(s)
Sat-Sun
Duration
1 week
Time
10:30 - 16:30
Fees
Full fee: £75
Senior fee: £75
Concession: £26
Venue
KS - Keeley Street
Course code
PG680
Availability
This course has finished
This course has finished
Still got questions?
counselling@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2530
Course outline
What is the course about?
In this course we will explore the psychological meaning of food and help to gain awareness around your eating patterns. We will examine how the ways in which you respond to food may be dictated by trans-generational messages and early childhood experiences.
What topics will we cover?
Topics covered will include the power of childish desire versus denial, the suppression of emotions through food, the guilt of over-eating and the control of under-eating. We will examine how food might be used to compensate for the absence of intimacy, how it fills the void of loneliness and calm difficult feelings. Using visualisations to identify early memories and making drawings to ground these in the present, you will connect with your past, find compassion for your inner child and understand your ‘here and now’ approach to food.
By the end of this course you should be able to:
Understand the origins of your eating patterns.
Gain self acceptance and compassion as a result of new insight and understanding.
Identify triggers to unhealthy eating and act consciously when a trigger is identified.
Describe the cultural diversity of eating patterns within the group.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is open to anyone who would like to examine their eating patterns and better understand their relationship to food. Participants will be asked to share their own experience with the group, take part in expressive activities including role play, drawing and guided visualizations (with eyes closed).
You will need to be a fluent speaker of English, be able to listen and respond to others without judgement.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The focus is on learning through inner exploration. We will do exercises in pairs and small groups, and also as the full group.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs. Please bring a pen and notebook, and other materials will be provided.
Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?
No.
What feedback will I get?
You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.
How will I be able to give my views on the course?
Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.
How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?
You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
There are two other courses that may be of interest:
The Psychology of Eating
Developing Positive Body Image.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.
Who can I contact for further information?
Tel: 020 7492 2530
counselling@citylit.ac.ukDrop-in course advice (term-time only) Tuesdays 13.30 - 14.30 (please ask at the Department Enquiry Desk).
To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.
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Contact us
Psychology, counselling & personal development
Tel: 020 7492 2530
Drop-in course advice (term-time only) Tuesdays 13.30 - 14.30 (please ask at the Department Enquiry Desk).
To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.
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