5 Ways To Love Yourself During Weight Loss
How many times have you said to yourself any of the following?
- “If only I could lose 30 pounds…”
- “I remember when I was thin and could fit into ______”
- “I will buy that swimsuit when I lose 10 more pounds.”
If your weight loss is fueled by negative thoughts and self-hatred, weight loss becomes a punishment. Part of the journey to attaining a weight loss goal and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is learning to love yourself as you are. This can be a difficult acceptance for some.
A survey conducted by Harris Interactive in 2009 indicated that most individuals recognize the impact of excess weight on their health. At the same time, 72 percent of physicians said that no one in their practice has been trained to deal with weight-related issues. This cycle of recognition without remedy breeds a self-hatred without much direction or support.
If you are in the process of losing weight and struggling with self-esteem, read over Be Well’s tips for self-love – no matter what weight or stage of weight loss you are in, these simple steps will help you succeed in your goals.
STEP 1
Accept Yourself
Honor and nurture yourself. Take time to be in your body and accept that it as beautiful. Ditch the things in your life that make you feel inferior, whether that is a body-bashing friend, fashion magazines or TV shows. Replace those things with body-loving activities like long bubble baths, massages and low intensity walks.
Try your hardest to reassure yourself – look at yourself in the mirror and say, “You are perfect and beautiful just the way you are.”
STEP 2
Be Understanding
Patience and understanding are vital when it comes to accepting your body. If you often feel hostile and angry toward your body, you are turning it into the enemy. Make a conscious effort to choose to treat your body gently. Don’t get frustrated at your extra pounds and don’t demean yourself in the process. Weight loss is a journey and you cannot expect yourself to change everything instantly.
STEP 3
Celebrate Accomplishments
Every step in the right direction gets you closer to your goal of health, fitness and weight loss. You are changing your life for the better, and that deserves to be celebrated. People who are generally frustrated from previous failed weight loss attempts need realistic definitions of success that focus on health. Set a handful of milestone goals and treat yourself to non-edible treats when those goals are met.
STEP 4
Dress Up
Wear comfortable clothes that express your personal style and feel good to your body. Dress the body you’re in, not the body that you want to have. Take yourself on a shopping trip, but don’t worry about the size if it’s bigger than you’d like it to be – jut cut out the label!
Try a deep V-neck top to elongate your upper body. Highlight your best assets – if you have great legs or toned biceps, accentuate those features.
STEP 5
Focus On Health
You’ve tried a variety diets with varying degrees of success. Your gym membership has basically become a monthly donation. Change the way you view exercise – get up and get going because it is good for your soul and not solely for your outward experience. Appreciate your body and all the things it can do. Find a routine that works for you and becomes more of a habit than a chore.
Be Well 365 is here for you every step of the way during your weight loss journey. Our staff will work with you to develop a plan that suits your lifestyle and encourages weight loss success. First visit Be Well 365 for a nutrition class, and we will help you on your road to healthy living.
Ready to stop fad dieting and start living healthy?
SOURCES
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/20-ways-love-your-body
http://www.womenshealthandfitness.com.au/weight-loss/fat-loss/135-body-love
http://stopobesityalliance.org/newsroom/press-releases/new-surveys-from-stop-obesity-alliance-show-primary-care-doctors-and-patients-see-shared-role-in-weight-loss-but-ask-now-what/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/owning-pink/201007/how-lose-weight-love
