I get it. It can be challenging to love every inch of our bodies. Why? Because from the time we received our first Barbie doll or fell in love with our first Disney princess we began to compare ourselves and pick ourselves apart. It continued on through pre-school and kindergarten and as we aged into adulthood, we continued the comparison game narrowing in on those parts of our body that we were told were not tone enough, tan enough, flat enough, round enough or just all around undesirable. At some point we simply declared our hair or our body to be our mortal enemy. Indeed, we continue to be our worst critics.
It’s no wonder it’s a struggle since we’re constantly confronted with images that, consciously or unconsciously, make us perpetually chase after some illusive mystical (and honestly mythical) perfect version of ourselves. The truth is our idea of beauty should not be based upon what we see on television or in magazines, but positive, loving, and supportive views and opinions of what we see reflected in the mirror on a daily basis.
Yes, there are things within our control to change and if you feel so inclined to make changes in order to be healthy, feel great, or have more energy, then I say go for it. But first exam your motives and be sure they’re coming from a place of self-love and not self-loathing. Did you know over 60% of women (and over 75% of teenage girls) wake up every morning with a negative self-impression of themselves and start the day criticizing multiple aspects of their body? With regard to men, only the worry of finances out ranks their concern with their appearance. In fact over 50% of men are concerned with their appearance. Daily negative self-talk has a deleterious effect on not only an individuals self-esteem but also their health. At best you’ll start the day off in a bad mood, at worse you’ll have increased levels of stress and anxiety.
Weight and age continue to be the number one and two general concerns, but can you guess the specific body part that causes the most angst? You guessed it….the belly! Without fail every client I’ve worked with, regardless of gender or size, have complained about their belly, stomach, or waist. The #VBO (visible belly outline) is the first place the eye lands when I’m taking measurements, when we’re talking about their style, and when they’re trying on clothes.You know what I have to say to that? Love thy self and embrace the #VBO!
There are a lot of reasons you may have a few more wobbly bits around the middle than you want, but there’s no reason to (a) focus on it or (b) wear only loose fitting tent-like muumuus. I can assure you that all you’re doing is drawing more attention to that area. Instead, you need to embrace your #VBO and dress in a style that compliments your overall body shape and coloring. Focus on your fabulous legs, your gorgeous smile, your incredible hair, or you sensual curves. Celebrate that you’re alive to enjoy another day with a body that takes you from point A to point B and back to A again. And hey, if you’d like to diminish your #VBO try some planks, take the stairs more often, watch what you eat, and don’t stress about it. Stress effects your digestive system which actually increases belly fat; so you’re not doing yourself any favors by making that your daily focus.
Life’s too short my friends to worry about whether or not there’s a #VBO in the clothes you wear. Instead, why not show yourself a little love? Do me a favor, next time you pass your mirror give your reflection a wink and smile and say something positive.
Skipped the Spanx this Post 😉
Skirt: Forever 21 – old (similar here)| Tank: Lane Bryant | Jacket: Target | Shoes: Sole Society | Silpada Jewelry (shown in this post)
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Live, laugh, love!
Carol 😉
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