8 "NEW" WAYS TO LOVE YOUR BODY

Have you ever said to yourself, “I wish I could change……….…” or “If I only had larger or smaller…………..…….”? Having a negative body image affects all of us at one time or another. Unfortunately, because of low self-esteem or personal experiences, it haunts some more than others. But, even if you've learned to love your body and have come out of the “I wish” phase, mostly all women can sympathize with our girlfriends, daughters, sisters and mothers that still have to learn how to embrace, accept and love themselves. This article is for all my girlfriends who have felt the disappointment of trying on that pair of jeans that used to fit last year.

1. Find a Quote that Represents You
For many, learning a quote, TV script, bible verse, or song helps them stay focused on their goals. It also helps combat the negative comments we are exposed to in the media, society and ourselves. Find the quote that helps you remember how beautiful and special you are. Then, blow it up, stick it on your bathroom mirror and put it in your wallet. Whenever you begin to doubt yourself read it out loud to remember the goodness that is inside of you.

2. Use those good smellin' body lotions (or buy some)
When you smell good, you look good! Aromatherapy is one of the fastest growing industries today. It's a fact that women have better “smellers” than men. The things we smell triggers our emotions. Pick a lotion, perfume or body spray that puts you into a good mood. Use it daily. But, watch out and be prepared to receive a few compliments.

3. Wear Clothes that Fit
It's time to donate those jeans and shirts that no longer fit. No one likes to do the side-to-side “hip shuffle” trying to slide into those jeans that no longer fit. Besides, doesn't your body deserve better? You'll find that wearing the right sized clothes will not only make you look better, but they'll make you feel better. If money is your issue, don't fret; go to your local thrift shop. You'll find the latest fashions at terrific bargains

4. Change Your Focus: Stop thinking about Weight! (hair, face or whatever)
For most of us that don't have a serious illness, weight is not our problem. It's a symptom of other issues that are making us unhappy or unbalanced. It's our “out of whack” priorities, putting ourselves last, living in chaos, low self-esteem, or living with unhealthy habits that are probably the cause of unwanted weight gain. Uncover which one of these issues you struggle with and work towards improving yourself. For instance, if living in chaos causes you to be too busy to prepare healthy foods, make a time management schedule for you and the family. Taking your focus off of food will help you become a happier, more balanced person.

5. Remember that Negative Comments have nothing to do with you
Don't define yourself by arbitrary or even direct and personalized negative comments. Most people that criticize are struggling with issues themselves. Think back to the times you were most cranky and yelled or were mean to someone. Although your comments may have been true, it probably didn't reflect how you really felt about that person. More than likely your negativity towards that other person had to do with how unhappy or insecure you were inside. Some people have personal struggles that are so hard for them to deal with; they only feel better when they take it out on other people. Try not to let their negativity shake your self-esteem.

6. Get Active, Again!
We often hear about the importance of working out. What we don't hear about is how our body changes its response to exercise as we get older. Often, the things we did when we were younger don't always produce the same results now. Sometimes, we don't loose weight or tone up as fast as we hoped. But, that's ok. You will get your body back in shape with consistency. In the meantime, remember that your mind and body benefit from exercise. Take walks, dance around your room, and plant a garden. No matter your level of exercise, there are rewards. It's not just about losing weight.

7. Put on the Good Underwear
Think back to how great it feels to put on new underwear. Did it make you “swagger” during the day? Did you feel sexy at night? Treat your body to the best. Underwear is one of the most undervalued pieces of clothing we wear. And if worn right, it can boost our mood, give us confidence and allow us to feel the sexiness we haven't felt in years. Do yourself a favor and inspect your underwear. If you have holes, torn elastic or strings handing on the side, throw it away

8. Lean on Your Friends
Can you think of three words to describe yourself? For many of us, the description of our self isn't even close to what our close friends and family would say. Unfortunately, we are our worst critics. Whenever you start to doubt, feel insecure or need an “image boost”, ask your friends to describe you in three words. You'd be surprised at the wonderful things they'll say.