This week, I went shopping with one of my favorite gal pals, Sarah. She’s a savvy shopper who has a knack for finding deals at T.J. Maxx. Shopping with her is always a blast because, let’s be honest, she’s stunning — tall, slender, and with hair that could be the envy of any runway model. You know the type, right? Whatever she picks up looks fantastic on her.
Maxi dresses? Absolutely lovely. Cute rompers? Absolute perfection. I’m convinced she could roll in mud and still emerge looking like a princess.
As for me, well, let’s just say my figure can be a bit trickier to shop for. But on this day, luck was on our side. Just twenty minutes into our adventure, we found ourselves twirling in front of the dressing room mirrors wearing matching floral dresses. What are the odds that two different women could enter the same dressing room with the same outfit and both leave feeling fabulous? It felt like magic.
We exchanged high-fives at the checkout, delighted to walk away with $20 worth of flattering fashion. We had a party to attend that evening, and now we were all set.
“Hotness is on the agenda tonight!” I joked.
“In double measures!” she chimed in.
Fast forward a few hours, and I got a text from her.
“Ugh. Why did I buy this dress again?”
I couldn’t believe it. She looked incredible in it!
“Because it highlighted your waist, your legs looked amazing, and the print is fabulous! Plus, it was only $20! That’s why! See you tonight!”
She replied with a frowning emoji.
To my surprise, Sarah didn’t show up in her floral dress that night. Apparently, she had spent too much time in front of the mirror convincing herself she didn’t look good. I was shocked. How could someone so beautiful see anything but perfection? But then again, it’s common for even the most stunning women to struggle with self-image. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t faced the same challenge.
Let’s Talk About Self-Criticism
Ladies, can we talk about this? It’s unbelievable how many of us have been unkind to ourselves. Have you ever called yourself “fat” or “ugly”? Yeah, me too.
That’s why I’m reaching out today. If we truly dislike our bodies this much, it’s high time we engage in a little exercise… in self-love.
Take a moment with me, okay? “Uh… no, I’m good! I have plenty of body confidence! Don’t make me do a silly self-love exercise!” Oh really? Have you tried on an outfit this week, looked in the mirror, and scoffed at your reflection? Have you ever indulged in a snack only to feel guilty immediately afterward? Have you compared yourself to someone else and felt inferior?
Okay, let’s pause for a moment. I promise this will only take a minute. It may feel a bit awkward, but it’s important. After all, these bodies we often criticize? They are capable of incredible things.
Underneath those stretch marks and scars lies a miracle — your child. Those marks tell the story of life. They are a testament to the journey you undertook to bring a new life into the world.
Practice Self-Love
So, let’s stop the self-criticism. It’s time to recognize our bodies for the amazing miracles they are. You deserve to love yourself where you are right now. That doesn’t mean you can’t aspire to change; it simply means that the body you have right now is worthy of love and appreciation.
You and I are going to take a moment to shower some much-needed love on our beautiful, evolving mom bodies. Ready? Here we go.
- Place your hands on your hips. Now shake them. Yes, shake those lovely curves! Celebrate them! In this moment, just enjoy the rhythm. Dance! It makes everything feel lighter. As you sway, take a moment to thank those hips for all they’ve done. They helped you become a mother and made childbirth possible. So let go of the hate. Say it: “Thank you, curvy hips!”
- Examine your stretch marks. Run your fingers over those lines, whether they are red, purple, or silvery. Appreciate them. Each line is a reminder of growth, a mark of carrying a life. Those lines are part of your journey to motherhood. So, say it with me: “Thank you, stretchy skin.”
- Embrace your belly. Wrap your arms around yourself and hug that tummy. Love it for being there. Remember the nine months you spent nurturing that beautiful child, those late-night cravings, and all the kicks and movements. That belly was once a safe home. Don’t resent it for still existing. Instead, be grateful. Let’s repeat: “Thank you, soft belly.”
- Now, look at your child. You created that! Your body accomplished that miracle. Be proud. Acknowledge your strength and the life you brought forth. Don’t harbor any resentment for the changes your body underwent to give life. Repeat after me: “HOORAY FOR SPACE! HOORAY FOR LIFE! HOORAY FOR MY INCREDIBLE BODY!”
Now, do me a favor: Keep your focus on your children, not that mirror. Because, girl, you are beautiful. You are extraordinary. You are strong. There is no reflection that can fully capture your worth.
Additional Resources
In need of more tips for your journey into motherhood? Check out this blog post on fertility supplements for some great insights. Also, if you’re interested in male fertility, this resource can provide you with excellent information. For more on pregnancy, this site is a fantastic resource.
In summary, it’s time to shift our perspective on our bodies and embrace the incredible journeys they have taken us on. By practicing self-love and gratitude, we can appreciate the beauty in our unique stories.
Keyphrase: self-love for mothers
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