Take it easy.
Let’s start this blog post with a pat on the back (or the butt, whatever makes you feel better).
Social media and news sources are flooding with ideas to keep busy and constantly commenting over this surplus of “time” that we all seem to have. What they don’t understand is that the majority of us have been keeping busy, more so than we may realize. The average person has had to become their own teacher, trainer, chef, friend, therapist, tech support, etc. with no type of training. We are all quickly scrambling to fill these positions on the spot as we face a pandemic, losing our jobs, worrying about our older relatives and loved ones, all while coping in close quarters with those that we live with. This isn’t easy.
There is so much pressure to come out of this quarantine in better shape, having read all the books you own, completing every puzzle in sight, or having learned a new skill. If this is up your alley or a goal of yours, that is great. Keep it up! If not, that is okay too.
We all need to take a deep breath and remember we are doing the best we can.
Everyone is stressed during this extreme time of loneliness and uncertainty. Stress impacts the body majorly, whether you gain or drop weight, lose your hair, can’t sleep… your body is bound to change. As we develop and adapt to this new way of living, it is important to listen to your needs throughout the changes.
This is a post I have been wanting to write for a while as I have transitioned back and forth between 114lbs and 140lbs in the last 4 years. I understand the struggle of unintentional weight gain and loss, I know what it is like to discover all of those weird stretch marks and unwanted cellulite, I have experienced looking 10 years younger because your face gains half the weight, and I especially understand what it is like to no longer fit into your favorite outfit. It sucks. And of course, not only do you feel those nasty feelings of insecurity, jealousy, and everything else that you just wish you could ignore; you also hate your body. You take it out on your body.
Take this time to learn to love your body. Your body is your permanent home, no matter where you go in life or what you do, it will be there for you and with you always. It is constantly trying to protect you from diseases and all of the evil in the world. To think of all the things your anatomy is capable of doing and does for you every day, is simply incredible. Yet, society constantly convinces us otherwise. The world around us becomes so powerful and overwhelming, we begin to believe we are anything but perfect. When in reality, we are all perfect.
We are perfect because our bodies keep us alive, define us; hold our identities, our spirits, and our beautiful minds. Next time you stumble across a stretch mark, fold, mole, whatever, don’t criticize. It is your skin telling you it needs more love.
Recognize and acknowledge the beauty you possess and take good care of it. Nourish your being as it will always do the same for you. Show your love through listening. What do you need? Maybe you are craving physical activity or some vegetables. What about some vitamin D during this time of indoor isolation? Never underestimate the power of fresh air. Recharging is also important, try to relax, sleep some more, meditate a little and do “nothing” all day.
While changing your mindset to revolve your life around what your physical needs are, will not be easy, it is manageable through changing small actions and habits. I encourage you to take a step away from social media and technology, spend a few minutes trying to connect with your body. What does it want? Perhaps a warm bubble bath? A joint maybe? It may be asking you to calm down and read a book. I don’t know. But what I do know is that a glass of water, sunscreen, and a walk never hurt.
Here is my advice on self love and body positivity: Be attentive to your needs. Focus on what you want to consume and when you are full. Always drink another glass of water. Give yourself compliments throughout each day and in detail too. Dance in your undies in front of the mirror. Wear a protective face mask whenever you leave the house and wash your hands constantly. Get enough sleep. Do your best to get fresh air and sunshine (I know it isn’t always possible). Try to appreciate the little things. Love yourself.