Body Positivity

Being positive about our bodies can be a real challenge for many of us. Maybe you struggle with your health, and get frustrated about what you can’t do. Maybe you’ve internalized our culture’s endless messages about bodily inadequacy. No one can fit into the ideal all of the time or in every regard. Or sometimes in any regard! Forget those standards. Who is going to love us in all of our old, ill, fat, hairy, funny-looking glory? When we’re sweaty or tangle-haired, spotty, wrinkled, or taking up space? Wearing pajamas with old holey socks? We are. These bodies are the ones that give us a precious and irreplaceable chance to be alive. To experience life in all of its improbable beauty. To connect with each other. To savor the pleasures we encounter. This challenge offers a chance to remind ourselves why we love our bodies and how much we appreciate their magnificent capacity to aid us in our quest to live vivid lives.

Habit:

Do something nice for your body (a relaxing bath, dress up fancy, take a nap, wear something cozy…)

Drink some water!

Daily:

Write one thing about your body you love or are grateful for

To Do:

Do something to celebrate your physical capabilities (exercise, dance, listen to or watch something special, enjoy a favorite food…)

Reflection:

Every time I circle back to this topic, I dive a little deeper. Body positivity starts with appreciating your favorite parts of how you look, or the control you have over decorating and maintaining your appearance. Then it dives into appreciating your body for what it can do more than how it looks. And at the deepest level, beyond ability, is sheer existence. Our bodies may not look how other people think they should, or even how we want. They may not always work how we want. But they are always valuable for giving us the chance to live this life in whatever way we can manage. Thank you, body, for letting me think these thoughts, and write these words. It’s good to be here.