Focus on Body Positivity for Valentine’s Day

I admit; I’m hard on myself. I scrutinize my physical imperfections, pinch my love handles, and jiggle my thighs. I’m guilty of being overly critical of my body. It’s easy to have a distorted perception of beauty and obsess about flaws when you are surrounded by images of stunning women with slim waists and thick thighs.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m a confident and self-assured gal but I am human, so when I see women with “perfect bodies” I occasionally experience moments of envy or insecurity. It’s only been in recent years that I’ve really focused on limiting my negative self-talk and truly appreciate all the great things that my body has allowed me to do (you know like birth a baby, run a half-marathon, etc.).  Valentine’s Day is a great time to show love to the special people in your life, including yourself! Ditch the flower, cards and candy this year. Here are some great ways to nourish and celebrate your hard- working body!

Words of Affirmations
What better way to overcome insecurities than by repeating positive and affirming words. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology reported that engaging in spontaneous self-affirmation resulted in greater feelings of happiness, hopefulness, optimism and personal health. These positive statements can help you embrace and change your relationship with your body. Set aside a few minutes each morning to repeat affirming phrases. Post these phrases throughout your home, or write them in your journal and refer to them whenever you drift towards negative-self talk. Some of my favorites include: 

• I am strong, I am beautiful, I am enough.
• My body is perfect just the way it is.
• I appreciate my body.
• I naturally love and accept my body

Try it out for a week and see how it can improve your mood and shift your mindset!

Stylish Outfits
You know that little black dress you’ve been eyeing at your favorite boutique? You know; the one that you promised yourself you would buy when you finally hit your goal weight. Sis, don’t wait, you cute now! Choose outfits that highlight your favorite feature and pair them with some killer accessories. Go ahead; show off your curves, your height, your ‘Yonce booty!  Choose colors that will compliment your eyes, highlight your hair color, and make your skin glow.
Even the researchers agree. In a study of older women (55 years or older), findings indicated that the way these women dressed and their overall appearance had a direct effect on their self-esteems.
Think about it.  Your confidence increases exponentially when you’re wearing an outfit that makes you empowered and beautiful. Yes with the Slayage!
 
Pamper Yourself
When is the last time you treated yourself? You deserve it so why not splurge on a good massage? Yes, massages are great for easing muscle tension, but they can also help to create a healthy connection with your body. Massages communicate to your body that it is loved and worthy of care. Treatments can also reduce the negative feelings you may have about your body by associating a behavior that honors and relaxes it.
The effects of a great massage are long-lasting so make sure you schedule treatment sessions often.

Practicing self-love takes very little time and can transform the way you see yourself. This Valentine’s Day, give your body the love and attention it deserves.
 
How will you be spending Valentine’s Day this year?

Janelle T. King, MPH, BSN, RN