Ways to LOVE your body

longleyq
Apr 6, 2023
3 min read

Body image is vast in today's world. We sometimes find ourselves idolizing men and women who are perceived to have the best body and features. The truth is, we need to celebrate every milestone of our image (as my sister would say), whether we have new freckles or moles, stretch marks, a larger body mass than we once had, wrinkles, grey hair, stubble facial hair, weight loss, blemishes, etc., We have to start identifying the beauty that we have been given and learn to embrace and uplift the current version of ourselves.

Throw the scale away, bro/sis!

I am a victim of having a scale and jumping on it to see where I am. We must remember we are more than a number; instead, focus on our unique characteristics, such as our talents, qualities, and skills. Just a friendly reminder, if you look good, you feel good! Dress that body with some of your favorite fabrics and accessories, and know you are handsome, beautiful, bold, intelligent, and SOMEBODY!

Exercise

We typically exercise to lose weight, but maybe we should focus on exercising to provide more physical activity. Don't punish your body; instead, go for a walk with a friend and improve your heart by being physical every day, even for 30 minutes.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Clothes that are too tight or big can create physical discomfort and make you feel worse about your body. Try clothes that fit you well and complement your body type. Remember, you are more than the size you wear.

Surround yourself with Supportive people

Your base, friend group, and support system should be the most supportive. They will likely encourage you, help you embrace your natural beauty, and uplift and empower you. We can all use support at some time in our lives. Bro, sis, you are not alone!

Change your mindset

Stop identifying your body's negative aspects; replace your self-talk with a more realistic, loving, and positive statement. Place positive affirmations on your mirror, in the bedroom, at your office, or even in the car.
Speak positively! Give others compliments, praise, and respect. Positive people typically feel good about themselves.
Try different strategies to support yourself. Create a list of the things you love about yourself and embark on that list. Remind yourself regularly.
Seek counseling. It's ok to seek additional help. Share your feelings openly and honestly.
Set goals. If losing weight is the goal, create a plan to help achieve it. Ask a friend to keep you accountable, hire a trainer, prepare a weekly workout plan, and give yourself grace.

Listen to your body

Eat when you are hungry and rest when tired. Try not to overeat from boredom, anxiety, or other issues that could cause you to go into a funk. If your lacking energy, go for a walk or run. If you feel stressed, talk to someone or journal.

Love the skin you are in!

We are our hardest critics. I also fall victim here because I always want to be the cute, slim thick version of myself. I have realized I'm beautiful regardless of my body, size, the thickness of my legs, the shape of my rear end, the dimples in my legs, the freckles and moles on my face, and the different shades of my skin. My body does not define who I am. I have a huge heart, a friendly spirit, and the ability to uplift and embrace people who come into my life.

I hope this reading encourages you to love the version of yourself that you see today. Understand that you can always work on improving yourself, but don't get confined to a space where you forget about the beauty you have currently. In case you need a reminder,