Marina: 'It's important to take the shame from bulimia'

Marina Diamandis, a talented singer and songwriter, has recently released a poetry book titled Eat The World, which dives deep into her personal experiences, including her battle with bulimia. This eating disorder is characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by purging, and it can affect anyone, though it is more common among young people aged 15 to 25. Marina, who was once known as Marina and the Diamonds, has always expressed her emotions through her music, but this new venture into poetry allows her to explore her feelings in a different way. In her book, she discusses various topics, such as her relationships, the challenges of living in Los Angeles, and the journey of self-acceptance as a woman in her thirties. One of the standout poems in the collection is called Aspartame, named after the artificial sweetener. In this poem, Marina reflects on her move to LA at the age of 20, where she sought the affection of a man while grappling with her eating disorder. She vividly describes the physical and emotional toll that bulimia took on her life, including the damage it caused to her throat, which ultimately hindered her ability to sing. Marina emphasizes that bulimia is not merely about wanting to be thin; it is often rooted in deeper issues, such as family dynamics and self-esteem struggles. She believes it is crucial to remove the stigma and shame surrounding eating disorders, as they can be life-threatening and lead to immense suffering. Marina's recovery journey was gradual and took about ten years. She recalls a pivotal moment when she realized that her eating disorder was preventing her from achieving her dreams of being a successful artist. This realization motivated her to seek help and work towards recovery. She encourages others who may be struggling with similar issues to be compassionate towards themselves and to understand that everyone's journey is unique. The singer also highlights the importance of open conversations about mental health and eating disorders. She believes that when public figures share their experiences, it helps to break down the barriers of shame and stigma that often surround these topics. Marina acknowledges that society's beauty standards have evolved over the years, shifting from an obsession with being extremely thin to celebrating different body types. However, she expresses concern that new pressures have emerged, such as the prevalence of cosmetic surgery and unrealistic beauty ideals. As she continues to work on her sixth album, Marina is also considering writing more poetry and essays in the future. She is committed to taking her time with her writing projects to ensure they are meaningful and impactful. For anyone affected by the issues discussed in this article, Marina encourages seeking help and support, as recovery is possible.