Have you seen this video yet from Ellen? It’s part of what inspired me to write this post…
Although I think the fashion industry is totally whacko at times, I love that this model is able to be happy with herself despite a few negative labels over the years.
If you follow my blog regularly you might notice I have body issues…like a lot of girls I imagine. It just dawned on me the other day that criticizing my body for the past 33 years has not done me ANY GOOD whatsoever. And I wondered what would happen if I actually started telling myself that I loved my body. So over the past few weeks any time I started to get a negative thought in my head about not being small enough or how much weight I am gaining because of my weird food cravings, I instantly replaced it with just the simple phrase “I love my body.”
I don’t shout it out at the top of my lungs or anything weird like that I just repeat it in my head a few times. A lot like how if I’m going for a heavy lift at the gym I’ll try to keep my thoughts positive and tell myself “I can do it. I can do it.” Nobody accomplished a goal or dream by beating themselves down with negative thoughts all the time right?!?
Although I’m not sure I actually believe myself yet, I KNOW in my heart my life will be infinitely better if I am more grateful and loving to myself. I truly believe our bodies are a temple–I believe there is so much science has yet to discover about the human DNA and what we really are capable of. And I believe that if every person in the world really loved themselves and radiated that love towards others, the effect would be amazing. I constantly ask myself what I can do to make a better world. I am far from perfect but I try my hardest to let my actions be a “force for good”. If it’s good enough for Superman it’s good enough for me. 🙂
I loved Man of Steel!
So my challenge is super simple. And maybe you already do it! Simply replace any negative thoughts you have in your mind about not having the perfect figure or face or whatever and tell yourself “I love my body, myself, etc…” I know it sounds super cheesy! And you might not believe yourself at first, but over time you won’t have to tell yourself anything, you will just know.
I probably don’t have to say this, but I believe loving your body means taking care of your body too. Our physical forms are quite possibly one of the most amazing instruments on the planet. We can do anything if we put our minds to it. But if we don’t take care of our bodies, it’s pretty hard to change ourselves or make the world a better place. In my opinion taking care of myself means moving my body a lot, getting my heart rate up consistently every day, pushing my muscles, but also enjoying good, quality food, breathing lots of fresh air, and getting plenty of sleep. 🙂
I would love to hear your thoughts on the matter! Or any good advice you have! 🙂 Please tell me how the challenge is going for you. 🙂
Thank you so much for reading and have a great rest of the week!
Tootles–Anna
