so what really
To make the meal support process easier and more comfortable, we worked hard to create an inviting and warm space to welcome you into. Our space is homey, comfortable, and intentionally thoughtful. We wanted a space where you can come and be yourself, let out a giant exhale, and do the hard things. Eating is hard for those struggling with any type of eating disorder. We get it and we’re here alongside you.
The only “requirements” for you to come into our space are listed here at a high level.
- Sign up online and reserve your seat at a meal.
- Show up with your food at your meal time.
- Be authentically you.
- Do the best you can for you, not for us.
Come with an intention and your food. When you arrive, take a moment to create an intention for yourself. This doesn’t have to be shared with anyone and is your personal intention. Some example intentions are to complete 100% of the meal, try a new food “exposure”, or just to eat with new peers.
More info on your food can be found under the heading “Food prep”. :)
All of our seats are the same – nice and comfy. Just select one that you like and put your belongings there. We offer open seating.
We have all the necessities to prepare your meal such as a microwave, toaster oven with convection, and stovetop. We also always have crisp cool water, hot water (for oatmeal, soups, etc), coffee, and tea. Additionally, if you have prepped food and wish to keep it in our refrigerator or freezer, that’s great too!
Now it is time to sit down and eat. You’ll want to sit in your seat and make sure to change your “dot” to the appropriate color. We have a dot in front of each seat. There’s a purple side and a yellow side. Purple means you want encouragement from others and are open to receiving feedback. Yellow means you do not. There’s no judgment for your decision. We want to provide the level of support you need at that given meal, and your dot color may change from meal to meal.
We may review meal time guidelines together, especially if there’s a new person joining us for the first time.
Once you have completed your meal, you can leave if you would like. You are welcome to use our sink to clean any dishes as needed. We understand people are all on different schedules and some may need to get on to their next adventure while others prefer to stay until everyone is finished. Either way is good with us. Just clean up after yourself!
