5 Steps to Loving Your Body Just the Way It Is
Loving your body just the way it is can be a challenging journey, but it's an important one. In a society that often glorifies thinness and presents a narrow standard of beauty, it can be difficult to feel confident and positive about our bodies. But the good news is that it's possible to cultivate self-love and acceptance, and the benefits are numerous. By embracing body positivity, we can improve our self-esteem, mental health, and overall well-being.
So how can we learn to love our bodies just the way they are? Here are five steps to get started:
RECOGNISE THAT YOUR WORTH IS NOT TIED TO YOUR APPEARANCE.
It's important to remember that your worth as a person is not determined by your appearance or how you compare to society's beauty standards. Start by identifying and challenging any negative thoughts or beliefs you may have about your body, and remind yourself that your value as a person isn't dependent on your looks.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE.
Engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques can help improve your overall physical and mental well-being, and boost your confidence in your body.
Exercise is a crucial element to our overall health, but it’s also an amazing way to care for, not only your physical health, but also your mental health. Moving your body regularly improves your mood, and can help to reduce and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
What we put into our body is so important. Food is fuel, and maintaining a healthy, nutritious diet can help to improve your overall physical and mental health. Additionally, you should create a positive relationship with food. When putting together your meal plan, or going out for dinner, remember that there is no “good or bad” foods, it’s simply a source of energy and nutrients for our bodies. You deserve to enjoy food, and try to approach food with a non-judgement attitude and focus on nourishing your body rather than restricting certain foods.
Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, and aromatherapy are amazing ways to reduce stress and improve your overall mood and happiness. Other ways to relax and take care of your body and mind are reading, walking on the beach, and hanging out with friends or family.
Self-care allows you to connect with your body on a physical, mental and emotional level and is an important step in your journey to love your body. 
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH BODY-POSITIVE INFLUENCES.
Pay attention to the messages and images you consume on a daily basis, and try to limit exposure to negative or unrealistic beauty standards. Seek out media that celebrates diversity and promotes body positivity, and surround yourself with people who support and accept you for who you are.
Our FAV body positive creators we follow;
@katie_parrott
@curvysam
@laceyjadechristie
@_katiefrances_
@honey_those_hips
@sophaaaaa
@icurvy
@thebodzilla
@maddyzanatta
@iskra
@tcnwy
Body positive, inclusive groups we're in ❤️
Fat Babe Energy
CurvyAU
Empress Athleticus Fan Page
SET BOUNDARIES WITH NEGATIVE SELF-TALK.
It's common to have negative thoughts about our bodies from time to time, but it's important to be mindful of how these thoughts can impact our self-esteem. Practice replacing negative self-talk with more positive and self-compassionate thoughts, and remind yourself that everyone has flaws and imperfections.
Try these;
- My body deserves love
- I am beautiful just the way I am
- The size of my waist and the shape of my body does not determine my worth
FIND JOY IN YOUR BODY'S ABILITIES.
Our bodies are capable of so much, and it can be empowering to focus on all the amazing things they can do. Whether it's dancing, running, lifting weights, or something else entirely, find physical activities that bring you joy and help you appreciate your body for its strength and abilities.
Overall, the key to loving your body is to practice self-acceptance and self-compassion, and to focus on all the things that make you unique and amazing. It's a journey, and there will be ups and downs, but by following these steps and being kind to yourself, you can learn to embrace and love your body just the way it is.
