As we get ready to endure the New Year Diets and goals, I thought it might be a good time to share some tips on how to feel more comfortable in your body. I know this is something that doesn’t happen overnight, however, it also doesn’t need to be a constant fight. It is exhausting to wake up every day and tear yourself apart over something that’s actually on your side.
Depending on where you are on your journey, some tips may be helpful, and others may not be. It’s all about practice and finding what works. And what works may change over time, and that’s okay.
- Let go of measurements. Get rid of the scale, stop taking measurements, or progress pictures. Even if it’s just for a few weeks, give yourself to reconnect with how your body feels, rather than how it looks.
- Focus on what your body does for you, rather than how it looks. Some things to appreciate is that your body knows how to handle all quantity or quality of calories, or it allows for you to sit outside and feel the sun on your skin.
- Focus on what you are capable of, rather than how you look. What are some things you’ve accomplished? What are some morals you hold? What is something really hard that you’ve overcome?
- Wear clothes that allow you to move freely. If you can exist comfortably, it’s a lot easier to focus on things that are happening around you and remain present with loved ones and experiences.
- Redefine what makes a good workout. Stop measuring a workout’s efficacy by the number of calories burned, breaking a sweat, amount of time spent, and/or level of soreness. Is it energizing? Is it fun? Is it something you look forward to?
- Connect with your body. This can mean meditating, yoga, or even brushing your teeth naked. Become familiar with your body and do not feel shame in exploring it.
- Create affirmations. These affirmations don’t need to be about your body. It may be helpful to create ones that feel more realistic. For instance, one of mine is, “my worth is not tied to my appearance or weight.”
- Rebuild trust with your body. This may look like eating consistently throughout the day without labeling food as good as bad. Prioritize satiety, and nutrients will follow.
- Get in the photos, but don’t look at them. The ones who love you want you to be a part of these memories. And while your body shouldn’t stop you from participating, you also don’t have to rush to see them if you’re only going to scrutinize your body, rather than appreciate the moment.
- Giving yourself permission to fully disconnect from the world can give your body the opportunity to begin healing, both physically and mentally. As uncomfortable as it may be at first, I promise it is what will set you up for long-term success and minimize burnout.
