10 ways to love your bod
by jane carter

1 Make a conscious decision to love your body, right now. Look at yourself in the mirror and state it out loud. Write it down. Do something to mark the occasion. “Starting now, I am going to love my body.” Make the decision without conditions or disclaimers (“…after I lose 10 lbs.”, “after a year of therapy,” etc.). Paradoxically, it is often not until you accept your body as it is that you are able to make healthy changes.

2 Finish this sentence: “If I absolutely loved my bod, some things I would do differently would be…”. Now make a list, without editing yourself. For example: “If I absolutely loved my bod, I would: Strut. Buy clothes that fit well and make me feel good. Get a massage. Stop comparing myself to others. Throw out my scale…etc.” Now go do these things!

3 Accept compliments. When someone compliments you, just smile and say “Thank you.” Do not contradict the compliment, downplay it, or explain it away, even if you have to bite your tongue to do so. Don't roll your eyes, laugh, or act embarrassed. The ability to accept a compliment is a very attractive quality. (“Attractive? Why, thank you!”)

4 Surround yourself with people who love their bodies. The mindset will rub off on you. Avoid people who dislike or put down their bodies. Have you ever fallen into a “who can insult their butt & thighs more” contest? It doesn’t just damage self-esteem—it’s boring!

5 Take a “media holiday” from fashion magazines and television. Feed the part of your mind that does not depend on a certain weight, hairstyle, or breast size to feel valuable.

6 Read “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou. Daily. Savor it. Recite it with relish.

7 Imagine that your body can hear everything you say or think about it. What would it hear? After hearing these things, how would someone feel? If the answer is “not too good,” it’s time to make friends with your body. Compliment it. Take it out for a good meal. Give it a massage. Write it a letter of apology and praise. Cut out the insults. Treat it like you would any good friend you were trying to reconcile with.

8 Spend some time thinking about your mission or vision for your life. What are your passions? Sometimes we obsess about our bodies to avoid having to think about the larger picture. When our passions are stifled, we often funnel that energy into shallow concerns. Who are you besides your body?

9 Surround yourself with supportive, loving people, who aren’t afraid to tell you that they love you for you.

10 If poor body image persists, it may be the symptom of something deeper. Seek help from a professional therapist who is trained in body image issues.