Loving your own body is often easier said than done. If you find yourself feeling badly about your body, you are not alone. With social media constantly bombarding us with images of a “perfect” body aesthetic, it is easy to see how we can establish unrealistic expectations for ourselves. This article serves to introduce healthier ways of looking at yourself and your body.
1. Use exercise is a way to nourish your body, not punish it.
Do not use exercise as a way to “earn food”, change your body shape, or punish yourself after eating a cupcake. When we focus on the aesthetics of exercise, it detracts from how exercise makes us feel internally. Exercise for the sake of feeling better – not looking better. Choose exercises that you love and make it fun. It does not always have to be intense. Go on a jog, play tennis, take a hike, bike on a trail, go out dancing, etc.
2. Think healthier, not skinnier
Do not frame your fitness goals around being skinny. Focus your energies on being more active and making better food choices.
3. Journal
Find a piece of paper and take five minutes to write anything positive about your body. Here are some prompt ideas:
What makes you uniquely beautiful
- Although it sounds cliché, it is true…there is no one like you! What qualities make you distinctive and wonderful? Really take the time and space to celebrate them. Re-read this list when you are feeling otherwise and let it remind you how friggin awesome you are
How can you thank your body?
- Think about all the ways you can show gratitude to your body. Maybe that includes a bubbly bath with a candle, a decadent body scrub, or a tension releasing massage. Whenever you want to give yourself a little extra love, come back to this list and do some of these activities. Your body will thank you in return.
4. Positive affirmations
Get nakey, stand in front of your mirror, and give your body a nice pep talk!
If you are uncomfortable starting at yourself naked in the mirror, start pushing yourself to be comfortable. It may feel silly at first, but just because it feels silly, does not mean it’s not working. Instead of throwing some shade to your body, throw it some shine. Point out all the things you like about your body, big or small.
5. Reframe your thoughts
We all have parts of our bodies that we do not necessarily love. But remember, your body is your friend!
Every time a negative thought about your body pops up, try to counteract it with something positive. We are naturally inclined to search for the negatives and overlook the positives. Break out of that mental paradigm. It will take time but be persistent. Here are some examples…
- My legs are too fat/thin
- Alternative: My body is exactly the way it needs to be right now, and I am evolving.
- I hate my stretch marks
- Alternative: My body is changing and that is OKAY. They are signs that I have been living my life and are natural changes that EVERYONE experiences
- I can’t eat ________
- Alternative: I chose foods that nurture my mind, body, and soul
6. Focus less on the number on your scale
A number on the scale does not define your worth. It is simply your body’s relation to gravity on earth. If you are trying to lose or gain weight, yes, a scale can help track your progress, but it can also become an obsession. Think about how you feel instead. Do you feel strong? Do you feel like your fitness routine is helping you achieve the best version of yourself? Do you feel healthy?
7. Wear clothing that accentuates your most beloved features
Anyone of any size can look fierce. Buy clothing you actually enjoy wearing and feel amazing in. Ladies, if you like your boobs, put on a V-neck. Men, if you have nice pecs, wear a tight shirt. Make your wardrobe compliment your body and let it boost your confidence!
8. Stop comparing yourself to others.
Guys, everyone has a part of themselves that they wish they could change. There is a strong chance that the thing you call a flaw is the one thing another person wishes they had. Be confident in what you bring to the table and know that your body does not determine who you are. Think of yourself as a whole person instead of a figure – “true beauty” is not skin deep.
Love this! Such a thoughtful article.