Body Image

Body image is an issue that you’re definitely not alone in experiencing. A negative body image affects both men and women of all ages. Unfortunately, statistics are showing that the vast majority of kids and teens are being negatively affected as well. Attaining and maintaining a positive body image goes a long way toward being happy in general. Comparison is the thief of joy. Each and every one of us has a different body shape and we are all worth of self-acceptance and self-love. If you polled a large group of people, chances are the number of people who want to change at least one thing about their body is in the high 90%. Coveting someone else’s body takes away from the body that makes you unique. Make a list of things you like about your body to boost your body image. Focus on what you can do to change the aspects of your body you have the control to improve. Attend group exercise classes, personal training, water aerobics, etc. Consume nutritious foods in a state of joy. Get yourself into a positive state of mind so that you feel better which results in doing better naturally without much effort. Engage in consistent self-care. The more you appreciate the body you have now, the more the universe will bless you with an even better body in the future. Take care of and love the body you’re in accepting it as it is will help move you in the direction of self-improvement. Schedule some time to enjoy a warm bath, journal, read positive material, get a massage, etc. Do something loving for yourself every day. Collect awesome people for a support network. Spend the majority of your time with people who are positive and supportive. Find people that build you up and energize you. Steer clear of people who are enablers of unhealthy habits. Get with friends to work out, prepare meals together, and cheer each other on with victories along the way. Cut out the negative self-talk. Talk to yourself like you would talk to someone you love. Would you repeat to your children the same things that you tell yourself? Instead of being abusive and harsh, switch to being patient, loving, and kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion and self-acceptance. Work yourself up to loving yourself. Engage in mindful eating. When you’re eating, do so in a quiet, stress free environment. Chew slowly and take a drink after each bite. Put your utensil down between each bite. Savor what you’re eating and stop when your stomach is about 80% full. Listen to your body’s cues about what it wants and needs. What are some aspects about your body that you like? What are some aspects of your body that you’d like to change? What actions can you take today to improve these aspects? Who can you call on to be a part of your support team? What are some self-cares you can start enjoying today? What are some of the negative thoughts that plague you? What can you say to yourself to combat these thoughts?