No longer am I going let my body be viewed in a negative way. We live in a world where self shaming is considered normal. How loving oneself comes off as being cocky, arrogant, and pretentious. We have grown up with the notation that we must point out our flaws. "Your hair looks good today" and the response being "oh it's such a pain to deal with." "You're beautiful" and the answer being "Oh no, I hate...".
While this happens with men, it is especially common for women. Women are constantly ridiculed for the bodies. We have expectations of what beautiful is, and there's no way we could ever consider ourselves beautiful. Not in today's society.
Well I say, screw that.
It's time to realize what our body really is, a gift. Our bodies tell the story of our struggles. They are completely unique to us, and us alone. Only we know what that scar is from. Only we know why our hands move the way they do. Our bodies are masterpieces, beautifully crafted to fit your story, your life. Here are two small things you can do to take time to appreciate your body.
1. Get Naked
In order to love our bodies, we need to take them in, completely as they are. With that being said, go to your room and take your clothes off. I know your first instinct is to repeal against seeing your body naked, it's important to do this. Next, go stand in front of a mirror. Start by the shape of your body, not comparing it, just acknowledging it. Just look at your imperfections. Look at the places you are insecure about, without judgement. Look at your freckles or that scar on your leg. Look at how your feet are positioned naturally. Look at the acne spots. Note that each space you look at is completely unique to you. And your imperfections are actually a part of what makes you perfect. Think of your stories. Think of that time you fell down creating that scar. Look at how much time alone has healed it. Notice the way your breathing and watch your chest go in and out. Reminding you of the fact you are alive, and you are here.
2. Allow Yourself to Think Positive
If you think your eyes are pretty, don't silence yourself. If you are really good at fashion, embrace it. Let those positive thoughts fill your mind and help you see your body for what it really is, beautiful. This part of the challenge sounds easy, but proves to be more difficult. Every time someone compliments you, don't find a way to deny it. Say "thank you!" or even "I'm glad you noticed!'. By doing this we are accepting that these compliments are true. People wouldn't go out of their way to say these things if they weren't true. So believe in them, and believe in yourself.
By doing this everyday, we can stop the stigma of self hate in ourselves. No more body shamming. No more denying beauty within myself. My body is a part of me, and that's something I refuse to be ashamed about.
