According to Ayurveda, much overeating is actually caused by emotional factors.  When we overwork, or are stressed, prana vata stimulates the gastric fire in our stomach.  We then interpreted this feeling as hunger, and so we eat, although we may not necessarily need food at that particular time.  This leads to overeating, and weight gain.  When we feel “emotionally hungry” here are a few things we can do to overcome this problem.

-Deep Breathing exercises, or “Pranayama”
-Yoga: particularly Moon Salutation, and Camel pose.
-Take a walk.  Fresh air helps to reduce cravings.
-Herb tea: If it is emotional hunger, the warm tea will make you feel full.  If you are still hungry after the tea, then you need some food.