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Managing Holiday Stress Around Body Image & Eating Issues

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Repose was founded in 2019 by Mary Breen LCSW, SEP, RYT (center)

The holiday season is often a time for celebration, but for many struggling with body image or eating issues, it can also bring added stress. Gatherings centered around food and family can increase anxiety and self-doubt. At Repose Therapy & Wellness in Pleasantville, NY, a team of therapists offers valuable guidance on how to navigate these challenges with compassion and self-care.

Identifying Holiday Triggers

“Understanding your triggers is essential to reducing stress during the holidays,” says Daniella Dombey, a psychotherapist at Repose specializing in eating disorders and trauma. Daniella frequently works with clients who experience the intersection of eating disorders, body image issues, perfectionism, and OCD, often connected to trauma. “Holiday gatherings can amplify perfectionism and lead to restrictive behaviors or negative self-talk.”

These social events may come with unsolicited comments about appearance or food choices, which can be particularly triggering. Daniella advises preparing responses ahead of time. “Rehearsing how to handle difficult conversations with a therapist or supportive friend helps in setting boundaries and protecting your emotional well-being.”

Strategies for Athletes Facing Body Image Pressures

Body image stress isn’t limited to those with eating disorders. Athletes often face unique challenges related to maintaining a specific physique, which can be difficult during the holidays. Brooks Perkey, LMSW, a therapist at Repose specializing in sports therapy, notes that the disruption of routine can be unsettling for athletes.

Kaylee Bayer, LCSW

“The holidays can make athletes feel disconnected from their bodies, especially if their identity is tied to performance or appearance,” Brooks explains. “It’s important for athletes to give themselves permission to rest and remember that their value isn’t tied to their body size or athletic performance.”

Brooks recommends incorporating movement in a joyful and non-punitive way. “Light activities, like a walk or yoga, can help you stay connected to your body.”

Addressing Food-Related Anxiety

For many, holiday meals can be particularly stressful due to food-related anxiety. Kaylee Bayer, LCSW, a therapist at Repose who specializes in treating anxiety disorders in both adults and children, provides practical strategies for managing anxiety during meals.

“Holiday meals can be overwhelming for those with disordered eating due to social pressure around food choices,” Kaylee says. “Grounding techniques, such as mindful breathing or focusing on your senses, can help ease anxiety during meals.” Kaylee suggests communicating with family members ahead of time. “Let them know what boundaries you have with foods so they can more easily respect your working relationship with eating.”

Holistic Approaches to Healing

The therapists at Repose emphasize a holistic approach – important when healing from food and body-related issues. “We can’t address eating issues purely on a cognitive level,” says Mary Breen, a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and founder of Repose. “Somatic therapy, which helps clients reconnect with their bodies, is a key part of the healing process. Often, eating disorders develop as a way of controlling the body, but healing comes from listening to and trusting your body.”

Mary encourages clients to engage in body-honoring practices such as therapeutic breathwork, yoga, or mindful eating. “Tuning into your body’s natural signals can help rebuild trust and shift away from a punitive relationship with food.”

Building a Supportive Environment

At Repose, the therapists agree that having a strong support system during the holidays is essential. Whether it’s a therapist, trusted friends, or family, surrounding yourself with those who understand your healing journey can make the difference.

“Talk to your therapist or a supportive friend before and after holiday gatherings,” Daniella advises. “It’s also important to practice self-compassion. Healing isn’t linear – there will be ups and downs, but those don’t define your progress.”

Knowing when to seek professional help is essential, especially if body image or eating concerns intensify during the holidays. Persistent negative thoughts about your body, preoccupation with food, avoiding social events, or feeling out of control with food may indicate it’s time to reach out.

Repose Therapy & Wellness, located at 351 Manville Road in Pleasantville, offers in-person and online services throughout New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Expertise

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Dr. Andrew Horowitz, DMD, MD, FACS

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. What distinguishes oral surgeons is their extensive training. At NYOMIS, our surgeons hold both dental and medical degrees – a unique combination that provides patients with a truly comprehensive approach to care. This dual expertise allows us to consider your overall health while developing personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you’re coming in for a routine or complex procedure, you can trust our skilled professionals to prioritize both safety and optimal results.

Essential Procedures: Implants, Wisdom Teeth, and Extractions

Many patients visit an oral surgeon for essential procedures that restore function and comfort, including:

  • Dental Implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, helping maintain the structure of your jaw and preventing further bone loss.
  • Wisdom Teeth Removal: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. Our surgeons remove them in a way that minimizes discomfort and promotes quick healing.
  • Tooth Extractions: When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, extraction may be necessary. Oral surgeons are skilled in both simple and complex extractions, ensuring a smooth and safe procedure.

Advanced Procedures: Full-Arch Implants, Facial Trauma, Sedation Options, and More

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons also specialize in a range of advanced, life-changing procedures, including:

  • Full-Arch Implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, full-arch implants use strategically placed implants to support a complete set of prosthetic teeth. Immediate load options allow you to leave with a fully restored smile the same day.
  • Facial Trauma and Reconstruction: We treat complex injuries like fractures, lacerations, and tissue damage caused by accidents or congenital defects, restoring both function and appearance.
  • Sedation Options: Our surgeons, trained by medical anesthesiologists, offer safe and effective sedation for patients with anxiety about oral care.

Beyond these procedures, we are fully equipped to handle all types of oral surgery, ensuring expert care for any condition.

At NYOMIS, our combined medical and dental expertise enables us to take an integrated approach to oral health, from surgery to recovery. Trust us with your oral surgery needs, and experience the benefits of comprehensive, patient-centered care. Contact us today to learn how we can make a difference for you.

How to Help Children Develop Healthy Sleep Habits

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Dr. Ranaan Arens

Creating and sticking to a healthy sleep routine for every child is essential for successful school year. Getting ample sleep (9-11 hours a night) ensures that children get enough rest to meet the cognitive and physical demands of their days.

Keep in mind the following five tips to foster healthy sleep habits in children:

1. Set a regular bedtime and wake time. On weekends, don’t let them sleep more than an hour or so longer than usual.
2. Establish a regular bedtime routine – such as a bath followed by reading, and not eating close to bedtime.
3. No screens before bed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that we stop using electronic devices 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Keeping TVs and computers out of their rooms is also helpful to create a restful environment.
4. Turn off bright lights at night. Nightlights are okay, but stronger lighting can affect a teenager’s ability to fall asleep even more than usual. Teens have a delayed melatonin release, which is why their bodies naturally want to stay up later at night and sleep later in the morning.
5. Take advantage of morning light. Exposure to natural light in the morning advances the circadian rhythm to shut down brain melatonin production and promote daytime alertness.

When Trouble Sleeping Signals a Sleep Disorder

Many people think of snoring as an adult problem, but children also sometimes exhibit snorting, rasping or gasping sounds while sleeping. In some cases, the problem might be caused by oversized tonsils and adenoids or being overweight. In others, the snoring could be the sign of a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

This is one of the most common sleep disorders I see in children. In sleep “apnea” (which means to stop breathing), children temporarily stop breathing and have reduced oxygen supply to their brain for 10 or more seconds at a time during their sleep. This condition is harmful to their and may affect their growth, development and behavior and lead to significant conditions as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Today, up to 5-7 percent of kids have sleep apnea. The size of their tonsils remains a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea, in addition to upper airway anatomical abnormalities. As with adults, being overweight is one of the biggest causes and risk factors; 17 to 30 percent of children today are in this category. The added weight in the chest and neck impinge on the mechanical construction of the airway.

Kids themselves may not realize they are having trouble sleeping, but parents might.

Signs include:

  • Frequent snoring
  • Abrupt arousals at night and difficulty staying asleep
  • Waking with a sore throat or dry mouth
  • Waking up with headaches
  • Difficulty waking in the morning
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Poor attention and poor school performance
  • Moodiness or other behavior problems
  • Depression
  • Bed wetting

How a Sleep Study Can Help

If your child displays any of the above symptoms – and especially if they have more than one – the AAP recommends that you have your child evaluated for a sleep study.

It’s actually a very easy process – all the kids have to do is sleep! Polysomnographic sleep studies involve spending an overnight (with a parent) in our sleep lab. At our new facility, we have a special pediatric room with a private bathroom where parents can sleep in the same bed as their children, or in a separate bed next to them. The children are monitored overnight as they sleep using highly advanced diagnostic equipment that checks for things such as airflow and oxygen intake. A sleep technician is there all night to monitor equipment and attend to any needs.

And that’s it. In about a week, we’ll have analyzed the study data and be ready to make a diagnosis. Treatment for large tonsils could be as simple as a tonsillectomy to cure the apnea. In other cases, treatments include an airflow regulating mask to facilitate breathing in cases of apnea, as well as a weight management plan. Other sleep disorders such as parasomnia or “night terrors” might warrant behavioral health treatment.

Whatever the diagnosis, our credentialed staff is dedicated to getting to the source of the problem and helping your child get the sleep he or she needs.

Dr. Ranaan Arens is a Professor of Pediatrics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is the Director of the Pediatric Sleep Center and Director of the Postgraduate Training Program in Pediatric Pulmonology at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM).
He sees patients at White Plains Hospital’s Pediatric Specialty Center in White Plains. To make an appointment, call 914-849-5437.

Preparing Emotionally for the School Year

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As summer draws to a close, the anticipation of a new school year begins. This period can be both exciting and stressful for families.

Mary Breen, LCSW, founder and clinical director of Repose, a therapy practice in Pleasantville, offers valuable tips to prepare for a successful school year.

One effective way to prepare for school is to establish consistent routines well before the first day. “Creating a predictable routine can help ease the transition,” Breen advises. This means setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, establishing regular meal and homework schedules. Having a set schedule can reduce anxiety and help children adjust better.

Open communication is key to addressing your children’s concerns. Breen emphasizes the importance of listening to your child’s feelings and validating their emotions. “Allow your children to express their feelings about going back to school and provide reassurance,” she suggests. This approach helps children feel understood and supported, making the transition less daunting.

Suggested Discussion Topics:

  • Daily Schedule: “Reviewing the daily schedule can help children know what to expect,” says Breen. Talk about their activities to create a sense of predictability.
  • Classmates and Friends: Breen suggests discussing their existing friends and new classmates they might meet. “Talking about social aspects of school helps children feel more comfortable and excited about reconnecting with peers,” she notes.
  • School Supplies: Involve your child in choosing their school supplies. “Allowing children to pick out their supplies allows them to feel more prepared and enthusiastic,” says Breen. This is also an opportunity to discuss organization.
  • New Subjects and Learning Opportunities: Encourage your child to share their thoughts on new subjects. “Discussing what they are excited about can shift the focus from anxiety to anticipation,” Breen advises.
  • Transportation and Safety: Review how they will get to and from school. “Discussing this can alleviate worries about getting to school on time,” Breen says.

Setting realistic expectations for both academic performance and extracurricular activities can prevent burnout and promote a healthy balance. Celebrate small achievements to build confidence in your child.

A well-organized study area can significantly enhance a child’s focus and productivity. “Designate a quiet, organized space for homework,” Breen recommends. Ensure this space is equipped with necessary supplies and free from distractions, creating an optimal environment for learning.

Structuring time before and after school is crucial for maintaining a balanced and stress-free routine. Breen suggests incorporating time for relaxation, activities, and bonding into your child’s day:

  • Morning Routine: Start the day with a calm and organized morning routine. A smooth morning sets a positive tone for the day.
  • After-School Downtime: Allow some downtime for your child to relax. Children need time to decompress after a busy school day.
  • Screen Time Management: Manage screen time by setting clear limits. It’s important to enforce balance with other activities.
  • Bonding Time: Schedule regular bonding time that is not related to tasks or other stress-inducing activities. Spending quality time together strengthens your relationship and provides emotional support.
  • Evening Routine: Establish a calming and consistent routine to help your child wind down. This can improve sleep quality and reduce bedtime struggles.

Encouraging organizational habits can reduce daily stress. From where shoes go to putting dirty clothes in the laundry, these small habits make a big difference. “Helping to pack snacks and lay out clothes can instill responsibility and accomplishment,”

Monitoring stress and anxiety in your child is essential. If these signs persist, consider seeking professional support. “Look for changes in behavior, sleep patterns, or appetite, as these can be indicators of stress,” advises Breen.

Repose offers several support strategies for families navigating these challenges. Teaching children mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help them manage stress and anxiety. This could include simple breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation sessions to help children harness the tools they need to stay calm and focused. Providing extra help for organizational strategies can boost your child’s confidence and improve their performance.

Family counseling can improve communication and resolve conflicts. “Family counseling provides a safe space to discuss and address family dynamics and conflicts,” Breen explains. “Regular check-ins with your child can also be beneficial and show your child that you are interested in their well-being.”

Breen shares a personal strategy to foster connection and reflection. “At the end of the day, whether during dinner or bedtime, we each share one challenge, two positive things, and something we look forward to,” she says. This practice helps process the day, connect, and encourages a positive outlook.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit byrepose.com. Repose
offers in-network mental health services with Aetna and out-of-network solutions for other insurance types. They are committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care to support families through life’s challenges.

Willowbrook Swim & Tennis Club: A Fun-Filled, Memory-Making Place for Families

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Mount Kisco, NY — Looking for plenty of summertime fun for the whole family? You’ve come to the right place when you enter Willowbrook Swim & Tennis Club. With its deep connection to the community at large, the club offers a wide range of compelling summer recreation programming to its members.

Willowbrook opened in 1965 as a solution for a community lacking a public pool. At the time, a vote was conducted to build a public pool in town but the decision was not approved. As a result, multiple swim and tennis clubs were constructed and put into operation around the Chappaqua area — including Willowbrook Swim & Tennis.     

Since 1965, Willowbrook has offered a family-friendly place where kids of all ages can disconnect from their devices, kick back, play, swim and engage outdoors.

Volunteers Mary Dempsey (left) and Verena Dunniganat at a June Ice Cream Social at Willowbrook Swim and Tennis     Inside Press Photo

And the adults love it too. Harriet Engel, President of the Board of Directors at Willowbrook, described the varied offerings, from monthly ice cream socials, regular wine and beer tastings to board games and bingo days. There’s even a book club!

At a post 4th of July event on July 6, members can enjoy a bounce house, a waterslide with treats like popcorn, snow cones, and cotton candy.

Along with its pool, Har-tru tennis courts, and the addition of two new pickleball courts, Willowbrook members also have access to Somers National Golf Club due to a reciprocity agreement between the two clubs.

Perhaps the most exciting feature of Willowbrook is its very successful swim team: every child has an opportunity to participate.  Engel mentioned, “Our swim team is the ‘winningest’ swim team in Northern Westchester.  A lot of the competitive swimmers around town got their start here; this was their very first swim team.”

Engel’s own three children started swimming at Willowbrook. “This was their very first swim team and now they all swim in college; that’s the case for many competitive swimmers in the area.”

In fact, the Horace Greeley High School Swim team was featured in this very press last year to acknowledge their achievement of being the first Horace Greeley team to win state championships three years in a row. Engel said, “Several of those boys got their start swimming here and still swim on the team here.”

The swimming success stories might well be attributed to the great staff and swim coaching Willowbrook offers.

One coach who has become positively legendary is Kelly Blacker. Blacker is the head coach at Willowbrook and a year-round USA Swimming Team swim coach with Storm Aquatics. Engel added, “Of the Chappaqua pool clubs, we’re the only one that has a USA Swimming swim coach who expertly teaches the strokes to the kids.”

Kelly Blacker, head coach at Willowbrook Swim and Tennis, and year-round USA Swimming Team Coach with Storm Aquatics   Inside Press Photo

Several kids, as young as five years old, got their start in the kiddie pool. They joined the swim team, and grew to be competitive college swimmers like Eric Engel, Oliver Engel, and Connor McHugh. Willowbrook members can take advantage of certified swim instruction lessons, tennis camps and clinics with coaches and staff  who are experienced and care deeply about the people and community.

Ultimately, Willowbrook is about family bonding and memory making. Engel said,” My family has been a member here for 20 years; my kids have grown up here, I think it’s a great family environment.”

Visit willowbrookswimtennis.com for more info.