Accepting your body & loving yourself..
- Joyce Figaro
- May 7, 2020
- 5 min read

Sometimes one of the hardest things to do in life is to just love and accept ourselves for who we are. We tend to be especially critical of ourselves, thinking we are "not thin enough" or "just not talented"
Those who know me already, I am only 1m50 and 40kg. And even with that size I did not like my body before. I was always the first one in the row in school (the shortest). When I reached my teenage years it was always a hassle to find clothes, as I was too small.
I can't help but feel a strange apathy about my body sometimes, even though I know that loving and accepting myself unconditionally is integral to my own personal happiness and spiritual growth.
And yet, after so many years of being conditioned by images of femininity in our society, I've often struggled to accept the appearance of my body.
Stop hating your body for its tiny imperfections. Change the way you think with inspiration from these body-image and weight-loss bloggers who learned how to love the body they're in.
Saying “thank you” to others is something you learn at an early age. But how often do you thank yourself?
Saying “thank you” to your body is one of the most important things you can do, especially when you’re pursuing a life of self-love and wellness. It’s not a habit that comes naturally because society is constantly telling us to change ourselves to fit a socially accepted standard.
I’m sharing this picture (see above) of me at the beach recently because it has shown me the value in loving my body no matter what. Even if I’m tiny I still have belly fat.
I really love this picture because it allows me to own my natural imperfections, which actually make me feel unique, feminine and sometimes even sexy! I embrace the uniqueness within myself, and I invite you to give yourself permission to do the same.
I am good enough just as I am, and SO ARE YOU.
Here are some positive points that have helped me on this journey. At first this might be difficult and some tears might be shed. Just know that whatever happens, this is all part of your healing and growth.
· Set an example with your body image.
I no longer focus on problem areas' when I look in the mirror. It was certainly an unexpected gift of motherhood."
· Appreciate all the things your body can do.
"I learned to love my body when I turned my focus from appearance to gratitude for everything my body enables me to do.
· Dare to not compare your body.
"If I compare myself with other women, I can create a million reasons why I should hate my body. Comparing myself with others always leaves me feeling inadequate and unhappy about my body, so I choose not to do it. My body might not be perfect compared with a model or even my neighbor, but it is the only body I will ever have. I would rather accept this fact and love my body the way it is than waste my time hating any part of it."
· Fight your inner perfectionist.
The most important lesson I've learned is to focus on what my body can do rather than what it cannot. No matter how much I work out, my body will never be perfect. I will never have six-pack abs or run a six-minute mile. Don't dwell on your weaknesses but love your body for its strengths.
· Care for your body so that it can care for you.
I learned to love my body by taking care of it, so it could do great things.
· Surround yourself with joy
Where do you spend most of your time? Is it your desk at work? Is it your car? When you look around your surroundings, do you feel a burst of joy? If not, the next step is to create an environment you absolutely love. My favorite things to surround myself is the sea, sand and sun. It’s an act of self-love when you are in a comfortable environment full of the things that bring you joy. When you can smile by just looking around, you’re practicing self-love!
· Mirror work
I’m sure you look in the mirror daily. This can be a very negative experience for many because of the unkind inner dialogue you hear. Don’t listen to those words. Instead, when you look in the mirror, look yourself in the eyes and say “I love you.” Do it, even if you feel silly! Self-talk is proven to work.
· Find your place of bliss
We should all have that one place we can go to and feel blissful. Think about where you love to go. Is it a walk along the beach? A hangout with friends? A workout class? An art class? Self-love is about filling up your own cup. When your cup is full, you can better serve others.
· Personal Development
Everyone has their set of strengths and weaknesses. All we need is a little self-improvement, and to look at things differently. Focus on your positive qualities. Use positive affirmations and tell yourself: “I have nice eyes!” or “I am a fantastic cook!” Learn to accept your negative traits, and turn it around into something positive. If you feel you are rather blunt in your conversations with people, think again and look at it this way: you are honest and forthright and like to get to the point.
· Love Your Body
Your body is just as important as your mind. When your body feels good, you will naturally feel good too. So, do not underestimate the importance of your physical health. Rest well and get sufficient sleep to rejuvenate your body and mind.
· Do Not Let Others Put You Down
We are often too easily affected by messages from the media and comments from people. To be truly happy with ourselves, we need to insulate ourselves from any negative vibes. Do not let the media tell you that you are fat or unattractive. Accept how you look, and stop comparing yourself to that supermodel who has been airbrushed in the magazine. Learn to have a positive body image and to accept yourself for who you are. Do not let criticisms bring you down. Even in the face of failure, always believe in yourself and your own abilities. One day you will prove the critics wrong!
· Treat Yourself the Same As You Treat Your Loved Ones
We often take care of our loved ones and protect them from harm. But it is important to do the same for yourself too. Be kind to yourself. Learn not to be so harsh on yourself. Learn and grow from your mistakes. We all make mistakes from time to time. Be patient as you learn to improve yourself. Accept compliments from others and feel better about yourself. Give yourself a treat from time to time. Pamper yourself with a massage, or buy yourself a special gift that you have always wanted. Dress up to feel good and confident. Each person is unique with special qualities. Appreciate and accept yourself for who you are as you are special in your own ways.
LOVE YOURSELF
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