Your body is a temple is a phrase we often hear. The idea of giving yourself the proper nutrients needed for a day is a tale as old as time. We all know exercise is crucial and that we need to get enough sleep. We all KNOW this but why do most of us not practice this?
The shift I am making in my mind is to treating my body as a separate entity from my mind and self-identity and showing it the respect that I would show my friends and family. It’s no surprise that I have struggled with self-esteem issues most of my life. I have always been the tall, chubby, freckled red-head. One thing I always noticed was how I would never speak to my friends the way I spoke about my body. I am actually very proud of the person I am, aside from my physicality. I am a loyal friend, good daughter; I am smart and driven.
Yesterday in the grocery store I was starving and I had had an emotional day. I really wanted to get the junk food or ready-made meals but each time I had that craving I asked myself, “Does this choice show respect to my body?” and I walked past my temptations. That is huge for me. I have always used food to soothe me, and in recent years with all the physical and emotional stuff that has been happening, it has become my main source of comfort.
I also caught myself in some negative self-talk yesterday and instead of letting it pass or distracting myself I stopped and said, “Is this a respectful way to speak to your body?” I decided that I have to stop blaming my body and perpetuating the cycle of anger and hate. Sure, it has failed and let me down but it has also done amazing things for me. I am going to stop holding in to a standard of perfection that is not attainable, and start praising all the joys it brings.
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