In a world that often feels like there is only one way to look good, it’s important to know that all bodies are special and deserve love. Feeling good in your own skin is called body positivity.
That doesn’t mean that we ignore our insecurities and flaws; it means that you learn to be kind and supportive to yourself.
As a latina I remember being as young as ten years old and we would go visit family and there is always that one Tia (Auntie) who would be like “Wow, you’ve gained weight.” and if i had lost weight it was “are you sick? Why are you so skinny?”
For a child this is creating dents in their self esteem, dents that as they grow older hover over them like a big dark cloud. Questioning if they're ever good enough, pretty enough and this is why I made it my mission to share with my daughter that all bodies are beautiful and should be celebrated. Today I want to share with you five simple things you can do to start feeling better about your body.
1. Appreciation:
Instead of focusing on the things you don’t like about your body, think about all the amazing things it can do. Things like being able to walk and hug those who you love, start to pay attention to the amazing things your body can do. Just watch how simply changing the way you think will make you feel much happier.
2. Positive influences:
Things we watch, listen to and people we spend time with can affect how we feel about ourselves. Make sure that you watch and listen to things that will make you feel good about your body. On social media follow accounts who uplift and empower others. Surround yourself with others who make you feel good about yourself.
3. Taking care of yourself:
What does that mean? It means do things that will make you feel good inside out or outside, in. Add movement into your life to keep your body, your mind strong and healthy. Do activities you enjoy, because when you take care of yourself you are showing your body love and appreciation.
4.Be kind:
Think about it, how often do you say something mean to yourself in your mind? Now when you catch yourself saying something negative, stop and replace that with a positive. Treat yourself with kindness, say things like “ I am smart, I am surrounded by love.” worth is not just about looks but about who you are as a person.
5. Celebrate differences:
We are all different and this is what makes the world interesting. Always remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Let’s celebrate uniqueness and diversity, when we do this we learn to appreciate our own bodies.
The journey of feeling good about our bodies will take time but as long as you remember to appreciate what your body can do, surround yourself with positive influences, take care of you, be kind and celebrate different bodies you're on the right path.
Your body is special and deserves love and respect.
I would also like to invite you to download my free hand book Slaying the solo parenting game: redefining sexy and confidence on your own terms. This handbook is not just for single moms but for all women. Let's spread body positivity, feel free to share the link with others.
With gratitude & love,
Jenifer xo
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