Body image is our perception of our own appearance. It quite often does not coincide with generally accepted ideas about beauty and sexual attractiveness, which is why our self-esteem suffers. But if you periodically “pump” self-confidence, you can learn to love yourself, despite the “imperfections”.
When from every cover of a glossy magazine there is an unambiguous hint that the stomach should be flat and the butt should be round, it is quite difficult to accept yourself “as is”. We are endlessly forced into a certain standard of beauty, and because we do not fit into it, our self-esteem and body image suffer. Undoubtedly, all this poisons life.
But there is good news: you can love yourself with all the flaws and be confident in yourself by changing your internal settings.
1. Stop comparing yourself to others
All of us are not averse to slightly “retouching” our appearance. But by dreaming of getting someone’s hips, wavy hair, or smile, we deprive ourselves of individuality. Emphasize your best sides: this way you will cheer yourself up and stop worrying about what does not triple you.
2. Focus on what you can change
Instead of killing yourself over unattainable goals (like getting taller or lengthening your legs), switch your attention to what can be changed. For example, sign up for yoga or Pilates to get leaner or improve flexibility. Be sure to celebrate your success by gifting yourself some chic heels, for example.
3. Dress like you’ve already achieved perfection.
Think it makes no sense to update your wardrobe until you lose weight? But if you wear the same boring clothes, the mood will be forever dull. Pick up a few practical items: a stylish blazer, trendy shoes, a chic scarf or jewelry that will spice up your look and add confidence. After all, the more you like yourself, the faster you achieve positive changes.
4. Surround yourself with beauty
Decorating a home or workplace, we get sensual pleasure, which is so lacking in everyday bustle. Put fresh flowers on the table, throw bright pillows on the sofa, listen to your favorite music while cooking, drink plain water from a beautiful glass.
5. Practice taking care of yourself
The more you love your true self, the stronger your desire to constantly improve. Schedule time for yourself to take a warm bath, get an olive oil massage, read an inspirational book, or write down your thoughts in a journal.
6. Create your own support group
Meet more often those who influence you positively and inspire by example, rather than indulging in bad habits. Work out together, share recipes for healthy meals and compete with each other in achievements.
7. Focus on your goals
You’ve probably heard the expression, “We get what we think about the most.” The same principle works in relation to your own body. Instead of agonizing over imperfection, focus on thinking about what you’re striving for. As a result, you will be able to objectively assess the prospects, perk up and find fault with your appearance less.
8. Treat yourself as well as others
Imagine that you treat others the same way you treat yourself. If you’re constantly berating yourself for the way you look or feel about yourself, try using a softer, more patient tone of voice for your internal dialogue. Change will not come immediately, but if you regularly practice self-acceptance, your self-image will become much better.
9. Give food a special meaning.
Little things matter. Practice mindful eating: eat in a calm and pleasant environment. Chew slowly, savoring each bite, and set your plate aside as soon as you feel full. By listening to the signals of our body, we develop the ability to respect our needs and naturally reach our ideal weight.
10. Practice gratitude
The more we appreciate what we have, the more reasons we have to be grateful, and one of them is good health. Make a gratitude list and complete it in the morning when you get out of bed and at night before bed.
Be grateful for each new day and all the good things that it brings, for example, for an effective workout or a good choice of a healthy diet. This simple practice helps to start the day on a positive note, live it with bright thoughts and end in complete peace.
11. Work on the inner “I”
In each of us there is a spiritual essence that is hidden behind the human shell, and we all came into this world to learn and grow. If you listen to your inner voice and rely on its wisdom, people begin to notice the beauty and rich potential of the person that is hiding inside your body. Start meditating daily to know and love your true self.
12. Read educational books
The Biology of Belief by Bruce Lipton and The Molecules of Emotion by Candice Perth are amazing books that help us understand how we create our own reality. Our beliefs, attitudes and expectations, emotions and assessments form not only an identity, but also a body image.
13. Control yourself
Looking in the mirror, ask yourself: “Who is leading me?” Do you live by the mind or by the emotions? You don’t like what you see? Instead of being angry at your reflection, try to listen to your body.
14. Be yourself
Let’s be clear. Take a look at your childhood photos. You were and remain a precious creation. You are a unique treasure without price. Find it in yourself.
15. Remember: action equals reaction
You become what you resist. Fighting with yourself and hating your body only burns nerve cells, and you remain in the same place. But this can be fixed. After all, in order to change your life, you need to change your mindset.
How? Decide that from now on you will think differently, and your emotions will “catch up”. Here is a detailed instruction on how to improve your body image, raise self-esteem and love yourself. Use her.