This week, I had the pleasure of shopping with one of my closest friends, who has an undeniable knack for finding great deals at local boutiques. It’s always a joy to shop alongside her because she exudes confidence and beauty — tall, slender, and with incredible hair, she could easily be mistaken for a model. You know the type? Whatever she tries on, it seems to fit flawlessly.
A maxi dress? Just lovely. A short romper? Absolutely stunning. I’m convinced she could wear anything and still look like royalty.
My own figure, on the other hand, tends to present more of a challenge when it comes to shopping. However, on this particular day, fortune smiled upon us both. Just twenty minutes into our retail adventure, we found ourselves twirling in front of the dressing room mirrors, each wearing the same floral dress. What are the chances that two different women could enter the same fitting room with the same dress only to emerge feeling fabulous? It was a delightful moment.
We celebrated with high-fives at checkout, ecstatic about our $20 finds that were bound to make us feel amazing at the party we were headed to later that evening.
“Tonight, we’re turning heads!” I joked.
“Double trouble!” she chimed in, and we were both excited for the night ahead.
But a few hours later, I received a troubling text.
“Ugh. Why did I buy this dress again?”
To me, it was clear: she looked fantastic in it.
“Because it accentuated your waist, your legs were stunning, and the print was beautiful! Plus, it was only $20. That’s why, silly! See you tonight!”
In response, I got a frowning emoji.
To my disbelief, she didn’t wear the dress that night. Instead, she spent an agonizing twenty minutes in front of the mirror convincing herself that she didn’t look good. How could someone so radiant see anything but beauty? Yet, I’m often astonished by how many remarkable women engage in self-criticism; I’ve been guilty of it myself.
Ladies, can we talk?
It’s truly shocking how many of us grapple with body image issues. How often have we uttered unkind words about ourselves? Words like “fat” or “jiggly”? Or even harsher terms?
That’s why I’m reaching out today. If we harbor such disdain for our bodies, it’s time for a little exercise in self-love.
I want you to take a moment with me. Yes, you! “No way! I’m confident in my body. Don’t make me do a silly self-love exercise!”
Oh really? Think back to this week: have you put on an outfit, glanced in the mirror, and sighed loudly because you disliked what you saw? Have you indulged in a snack and felt guilty right after? Have you compared yourself to someone else and felt inadequate?
If you can relate, sit tight. I promise this will only take a minute.
It may feel silly, maybe even awkward, but it’s essential. Because, dear friends, the bodies we often criticize? They’ve brought life into the world. Beneath those scars and imperfections lies a miracle — your child. Each stretch mark tells a story of growth, a testament to the journey of motherhood.
So, if disappointment creeps in when you gaze in the mirror, it’s time to stop. We must break the cycle of self-hate and embrace our bodies as the incredible vessels they are. Love yourself at every stage of your journey. That doesn’t mean you can’t strive for change; it simply means that the body you have right now deserves appreciation.
Let’s take a moment to show our wonderful, ever-evolving mom bods some love.
- Place Your Hands on Your Hips
Now shake them! Move those beautiful curves; enjoy them! Dancing can uplift your mood. Thank your hips for their role in motherhood; they made bringing life into this world possible. - Examine Your Stretch Marks
Trace your fingers along those lines. Appreciate them! Every mark represents growth, a moment when you nurtured a living being. Celebrate those lines; they signify the journey of motherhood. - Embrace Your Belly
Wrap your arms around your tummy, and love it. Remember those nine months of anticipation and joy. That bulge is a reminder of the life it once sheltered. - Look at Your Child
Remember, you created that! Your body brought forth a miracle. Don’t resent it for the changes it went through to give life. Celebrate the space it made for your beautiful child.
Now, let’s repeat together: HOORAY FOR LIFE! HOORAY FOR MY INCREDIBLE BODY!
Here’s a little challenge for you: keep your focus on your children rather than that mirror. Because, my friend, you are stunning. You are strong, and you are a mother. There’s no mirror that can truly reflect your worth.
In summary, embracing self-love is crucial for mothers battling body image issues. Instead of criticizing ourselves, we should celebrate the journey our bodies have undergone to create life, appreciating every scar and stretch mark along the way.