Thursday, July 30, 2015

Do You Appreciate Your Body?



Hello Everyone,

This month I wanted to address body appreciation.  We are taught to be humble, so we certainly don't go around bragging about our toned abs, strong legs, thick shiny hair, high cheek bones, etc. On the contrary, sometimes we discuss things about ourselves that we aren't happy with:  beer belly; big ears or nose; bird legs; thunder thighs; flabby arms; varicose veins; pontoon feet - you get the drill.  It doesn't help when family joins in and gives us nicknames related to our shortcomings.  Again, it's perhaps an effort to keep a person humble.

But, shouldn't we change the way we think?  Shouldn't we be thankful for what we have, and what our body does for us?  I have a friend who has been in a wheelchair ever since a debilitating accident 15 years ago.  I don't hear him complain about not having the use of his legs. As a matter of fact, he's simply grateful to be alive, and makes the most of every day.


When you find yourself starting to say something negative about yourself, try to stop, check yourself, and turn it into something positive.  Example:  "I hate my legs!"   Instead, say:  "I'm so grateful to my legs for holding me up, and taking me so many places all these years." 

Consider practicing 'body gratitude' this month, and see if it doesn't just help make your outlook more optimistic. Practice replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts.

Take care,

Mary