The other day, I caught sight of my body's reflection in our full-length mirror as I was changing clothes. The sunlight poured in and highlighted everything I am self conscious about; every bump, fold and pocket of cellulite was so visible. It felt like a stagelight was cast upon me. I took a deep breath and considered going down the rabbit hole of listing all my flaws but I decided not to. I changed clothes and made a mental note to catch the potential windfall if it came up again.
By not "going down the list", I gave no attention to my Ego who was ready and growling at the gate. By consciously ignoring it, it whimpered itself to sleep. I did check in on it, knowing that it could be a matter of time before it arose from its slumber. It knocked a few times but I didn't let it in.
Raised by parents who tried to be perfectionists with their bodies, I am very familiar with being self-critical. I propelled that type of negative inner dialogue well into my early 30's when I began to learn to navigate a new way of relating to myself - kindly. We all tend to follow behavior that we see: my parents and society modeled that a perfect body was the only body and the only way to be seen and accepted. You and I both know that is not true, but positive examples of how to accept and embrace ourselves can feel limited in supply.
What is one to do when we feel limited in positive examples and self-love?
1) Dress the body you have today; not the one you had in the past or are eager to have tomorrow.
2) Wear clothing that feels nice on your frame and skin, because when you feel good, it makes a world of difference mentally and relationally.
3) Choose colors that make you feel good. Those that do are the ones that innately compliment your complexion.
4) Stay away from any trend that is not flattering to your body frame, complexion and lifestyle. Otherwise, you'll feel uncomfortable and that will tax your energy and mental wellbeing.
5) Move. Physical movement is one of the best ways to help us develop a positive connection with ourselves but the trick is to do something that is enjoyable. For example, taking walks in a beautiful environment is an easy way to invoke a feel-goodness because your mind will be distracted by the beauty around you rather than isolating "what's wrong with you."
6) Last, but not least, breathe. The breath is a simple and profound way to develop your self-awareness on a compassionate level. Recognizing the rise and fall of your chest and gentle expansion and release of your abdomen as you breathe can remind you that your body performs small miracles everyday.
I am not going to tell you that reforming your way of thinking is easy. It's not and it takes time, but isn't living a life in which you learn to cherish yourself better than perishing your self-esteem? Wouldn't you rather enjoy yourself vs perjure yourself?
Step in the love sphere, my friend, and welcome yourself as you are today. The way to change your life is by changing your way of thinking and that is a continual choice you can make and please trust me when I say, You have the Power to do So.
Tania Isaac is an experienced Spiritual Guidance Channeler, Pet Communicator, Integrative Energy Healer and certified yoga instructor who specializes in blending holistic modalities to create unique healing sessions. She is located in Santa Barbara, CA where she lives with her husband and their rescued dog Oreo. Her mission is to empower empaths and help individuals connect with their innate metaphysical and healing abilities. To learn more about her offerings, visit: www.taniaisaac.com