Here’s a big lesson I’ve learned throughout the past few years of this health journey: it’s not always going to be a straight, upwards line. Truthfully, it’s like the wildest line graph you’ve ever seen! I think we often talk about the ups/triumphs of a health journey but rarely talk about the downs because they’re difficult to admit. I’ve been experiencing a few “downs” lately, and I feel compelled to write about it because I know I’m not alone. So, here it is: I’ve been struggling with my body image lately. This year was a major transition year for me; I didn’t prioritize my health throughout all the changes and stress; and now, I see a difference in my body which has gotten me feeling down.
It’s been going on for a while, honestly. It was probably around Christmas 2022 when I noticed the changes. But this is the year I really *moved* countries, started a first year teaching job (yikes!), and so many “new” tasks that I had to focus on/overcome. If I had a second to workout, I would choose to sleep instead. If I had time to cook, I’d choose to order out and watch a movie instead. Which is totally okay! But I saw the add-up in the mirror, and I would get upset.
I watched the movie Eat, Pray, Love, and Julia Robert’s character has a great scene about how we shouldn’t let the stigma of gaining weight keep us from living. Her character insisted on “buying the next size up instead of trying to squeeze into an older size! Embrace the now.” It really inspired me to accept that this is a difficult time in my life; my focus needs to be elsewhere at this moment; and I’ll make some small changes to feel better but not put pressure on myself. I bought some fun, new workout clothes that made me happy to try out in the gym. I also bought super cute new outfits that helped me feel confident. I was doing a bit better until…
I got sick and had to go to the doctor’s office. I reminded myself that my value is not based on a number on a scale, but when the scale showed that I had gained 15 pounds- my heart sank. I’m so embarrassed to admit it. I talk nonstop about how the scale doesn’t matter, and it’s about how we feel-which I stand by! But damn… seeing it hurt. I caught myself when my mind started to race with how I can workout extra hard or change my eating habits immediately to fix this-blah blah blah… and my heart sank even more!! That’s not fun or desirable! That’s not accepting where I am like Julia Roberts talked about! So, I’m not going to think this way. Here’s what I’ve decided:
Analyze why you stopped prioritizing your physical and mental health:
- I gave all my time to my job because I wanted to be the best
- I rarely gave my time to working out
- I rarely gave my time to do things I enjoy
- I rarely gave my time to cook for myself
- I wanted to make new friends, so I went out drinking/eating more than normal
- I moved a lot and didn’t have a “home” to make a comfortable gym
So next, how can I change these things for next year? How can I start prioritizing myself this next school year?:
- Put boundaries on work. Do a good, honest job, but set aside AT LEAST 1h30 for yourself per day.
- Commit to 5 workouts per week-no matter the intensity or time
- Commit to doing something you enjoy during “you” time- reading, shopping, coffee shops, etc.
- Commit to making meals that make you feel good- meal prep before difficult weeks
- Keep on being social! You can always make healthy choices when out-or not!
- Now I have a home AND space for a home gym to workout anytime I want!
Then, I wrote myself a letter about why these changes are important to me. Basically- I’m happiest when I’m healthiest. Putting aside time for my health will benefit me in EVERY aspect of my life. I believe we attract what we put out, and I want to radiate happiness and confidence to attract these things back! I know that these changes are simple yet powerful, and I know that I can do them with ease because I can do whatever I set my mind to. I’ve proved that already!
So, here’s to the next year of the journey! I’m excited to see what lessons this year brings 🙂
I asked people on social media how they overcome bad body image days and here are their tips:
- “I wear my most flattering outfit.”
- “For every negative thought, I tell myself two positive thoughts- about my body and/or just the person I am.”
- “Having written affirmations on the mirror helps wonders!”
- “I try to see myself through someone else’s eyes- ‘would a stranger think these thoughts?’”
- “I remind myself that bodies and minds change, and if I don’t like myself today I might tomorrow.”
- “Something small and fun to feel ‘prettier’- do my hair, paint my nails, wear my favorite clothes, etc.”
- “Try to direct my attention to how my body feels instead.”
- “Journaling has helped me with that. When I start thinking bad about my body, I take some time out in the day to write about what I feel. It helps me find out more about what’s going on.”
- “Take time away from social media/triggers. I tend to feel bad about my body after a day of scrolling through instagram and seeing everyone else’s highlight reel.”
Thanks to everyone who responded on social media with some ideas!
My Health Journey 