International no diet day is fast approaching. This year I would like us all to take a moment to not only push back against the harmful diet messages that state that in order for us to be happy we need to change our shape and weight, and to take some time to think about our own personal relationship with our bodies and with food.
It has been proven time and time again, that the more one focuses on trying to change their body, the worse one tends to feel about themselves. In other words, as long as we are at war with our bodies, we will not be able to be at peace with ourselves and our relationship with food. So, on May 6th, let’s take a day to practice being kind to ourselves and our bodies.
How can I be kind to my body?
1. Fuel
Fuel your body by meeting your nutritional needs. Include regular meals and snacks throughout the day and ensure they are well balanced by including adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Determine what your nutritional needs are by listening to your internal cues of appetite, hunger, satiety, fullness, taste preferences, pleasure and sense of well-being.
2. Move
Movement should be joyful and respectful of your body’s available energy.
Movement releases “feel good hormones” that help with relaxation and happiness.
Don’t forget about rest. Adequate sleep plays a critical role in immune function, metabolism, memory, learning, and other vital functions.
3. Comfort
Wear clothing that fits and helps you feel confident.
4. Be positive
Stop negative body talk and body bashing! Focusing on your imperfections create more self-consciousness and body worry. Instead try focusing on what your body can do for you.
5. Stop comparing
Comparing yourself to everyone in the room blinds you from appreciating yourself. Try accepting and respecting the natural diversity of your body’s shape and size and reject specific shape and weight standards.
Being kind to your body does not mean you have to immediately accept every part of your body. However, it does mean treating your body with respect by listening to it and providing it with what it needs – fuel, movement, rest, love, gratitude…