The other morning, I woke up with noticeably puffy eyes. Was it allergies? Maybe it was the restless night's sleep? Or it could have been that the dinner I had last night was saltier than my usual? Regardless of the cause, I didn't like the way I looked. But, instead of attempting to conceal or "fix" my swollen eye this time (I learned my lessons as past futile attempts at Sephora proved costly and ineffective), I took a deep breath and acknowledged that this was my reality at that moment. I knew that it wasn't a permanent state, so I decided to embrace it and carry on with my day.
I recognize that I'm not alone in grappling with accepting the changes in my body. This journey demands introspection and empathy. Admittedly, it's tough to come to terms with the fact that my body has changed. Yet, I'm working towards finding peace with it. However, it's not a simple task. Over the past couple of years, my life has been drastically altered by back pain. It's limited my ability to exercise, engage in activities, and even wear my favorite boots (the pain of putting them on was excruciating).
Nevertheless, I'm progressing towards recovery and positively and energetically glimpsing hope on the horizon. Throughout this experience, I've gained valuable insights and now wish to share the power of positivity—a motivational boost to uplift. By channeling energy into action, you can achieve positive change in both thoughts and deeds. And when you combine positivity and gratitude with intuitive eating and body confidence, you can free yourself from constraints around food and body image.
Here are some strategies that have been helpful for me (and hopefully for you too).
Positive Affirmations- Give yourself daily, verbal encouragements and reminders.
Think Healthier Not Skinnier-Stop thinking about how much your body weighs, or how it’s shaped. Think about all the amazing things it can do, all the places it can take you, how it feels, and the experience it brings you.
Compliment Others- I have found that when we open ourselves up to be kind to others, it also opens us up to be kinder to ourselves. Be someone else’s silver lining.
Focus on What You Like about Yourself- We’re naturally inclined to look for our dissatisfactions and overlook the good things. Let’s break out of that way and focus on how terrific you are.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others- Imagine how boring it would be if there were only one way to be, and to feel, beautiful. Appreciate the uniqueness in yourself and others.
Do Something Nice for Yourself- Dedicate time to self-care and indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. You deserve it!
As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and an Intuitve Eating Counselor, if I can help you to feel better about yourself and make positive changes, feel free to contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com