|
|
10 “WILL-POWERS” FOR IMPROVING BODY IMAGE
- Twice a day, everyday, I will ask myself “Am I benefiting from focusing on what I believe are the flaws in my body weight or shape?
- I will think of three reasons why it is ridiculous for me to think that thinner people are happier or “better.” I will repeat these reasons to myself whenever I feel the urge to compare my body shape to someone else's.
- I will spend less and less time in front of mirrors--all they do is make me feel uncomfortable and self-conscious as I focus on each part of my body.
- I will exercise for the joy of feeling my body move and grow stronger. I will not exercise simply to lose weight, purge fat from my body, or to “make-up” for calories I have eaten.
- I will participate in activities that I enjoy, even if they call attention to my weight and shape. I will constantly remind myself that I deserve to do things I enjoy, like dancing, swimming, etc., no matter what my shape or size is!
- I will refuse to wear clothes that are uncomfortable or that I do not like but wear simply because they divert attention from my weight or shape. I will wear clothes that are comfortable and that make me feel comfortable in my body.
- I will list 5-10 good qualities that I have such as understanding, intelligence, or creativity. I will repeat these to myself whenever I start to feel bad about my body.
- I will practice taking people seriously for what they say, feel, and do. Not for how slender or “well put together” they appear.
- I will surround myself with people and things that make me feel good about myself and my abilities. When I am around people and things that support me and make me feel good, I will be less likely to base my self-esteem on the way my body looks.
- I will treat my body with respect and kindness. I will feed it, keep it active, and listen to its needs. I will remember that my body is the vehicle that will carry me to my dreams!
AFFIRMATION: I choose to take care of my body!
Next months inspiration will be THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM DOGS. Come back and see us again.
by Michael Levine, Ph.D.
|
