There is so much that may trigger you to feel bad about your body.
How your jeans fit when you zipped them this morning.
What you ate yesterday.
Pictures on social media.
Recalling the conversation over Thanksgiving dinner about how Aunt Susan lost all of that weight on her latest diet. Uggh. Diet and weight loss talk can be so overwhelming.
If this is you, you may be:
Making a plan to fix your body with a new diet, more restriction (aka being good today), and more exercise.
Feeling stuck and hopeless. Body shame can feel very heavy and immobilizing.
Engaging other patterns that feel less bad; like shopping, excessive working, drinking, and eating.
These aren’t bad responses. It's natural to find ways to feel better when living in a world that often tells you that there is something wrong with your body. These are ways you’re trying to survive.
I'd like to offer you a few ways to ride out feeling bad about your body.
Can you pull yourself up and away and witness yourself? Instead of being caught up in thoughts, reactions, and the drama of fixing, watch yourself in the experience.
Limit how much outside information and pictures you do take in. Turn away from the magazines in the grocery store aisle, certain accounts on social media and websites. Follow #bodyliberation accounts.
Give yourself permission to wear comfortable clothing.
Prioritize some of your basic needs; hydration, rest, and connecting with a close and trusted friend, partner, or family member.
Do your best to ground yourself in your body. Take some deep breaths. Spend a few moments outside and get some fresh air. Let your feet rest on the floor and let them be supported.
I know it doesn't feel great. Remind yourself that this too shall pass. You deserve to feel good in your body, no matter what. Be gentle with yourself.