10 Ways to Love Yourself Thin
Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at 04:11PM As someone who has lost and regained hundreds of pounds over the course of my life, I’ve come to realize I don’t need a food plan to help me lose weight. I know how to eat healthy. In fact, I have probably learned enough during my years of dieting to write a set of dieting encyclopedias. Don’t get me wrong, food plans based on healthy concepts work and I recommend them to provide a well-needed structure. I also know, though, that a food plan is not enough. Neither is a food plan coupled with meetings, books, or well-meaning weight loss counselors. The truth is, if you don’t love yourself the weight won’t stay off. It’s pure and simple...and easier said than done. Here are 10 things that are helping me “love myself thin.”
- Every morning I stand in front of a mirror, look deep into my eyes say, “I love you and approve of you, Mary.”
- I’ve forgiven myself for every pound I’ve regained. No excuses, just pure forgiveness and love.
- I play at losing weight instead of working at it. It’s much more fun.
- In small bursts throughout the day, I breathe, meditate, or pray.
- I’m replacing negative self-talk with affirmations.
- I trust what my body, mind, heart, and soul tell me.
- I've found parts of my body that I love right now. I’ve learned a lot about this through OnePinky. (www.onepinky.com) My body is amazing and I’m learning more and more what an awesome gift it really is.
- I am not quitting. I love myself too much to quit.
- I share my goals and feelings with loving people. I’ve stopped spending my energy trying to help people understand or “get" me.
- I’m willing to receive support and willing to support others on their journeys.
How well do you love yourself? Share your thoughts by clicking on “Comments” below.
Reader Comments (5)
I feel like I'm lying if I stand in front of a mirror and say "I love you" when it just isn't true.
I understand what you're saying, Nancy, and I recommend that you do it anyway. I'm a big believer in the "power of attraction." In other words, what you think about, you bring about. So if you keep telling yourself how lousy you are, it will come true. Instead, keep telling yourself "I love and approve of you, Nancy" and eventually you'll discover it's true. "Fake it 'til you make it!" Best wishes, Mary
I, too, believe we must surround ourselves with positive influences along life's journey and seek to help others when and where we can. This is what brings true happiness...no matter what hardships or trials life throws us
Many years ago I struggled with my weight after having gained during two pregnancies. During that time in my life I was juggling a teaching job, volunteer work at church, being a mom and wife. My neighbor invited me to go to an aerobics class with her. I gave all kinds of excuses and finally went. After not being able to move without pain for the first week I decided to keep going to class. I was 30 years old at the time and eventhough I had time for everyone else, made the decision to do one thing a day for myself and that was exercise. It has not only halped me with my weight but kept me sane though all the craziness life can bring. Love yourself enough to carve out some "me" time.
That's a great story, Linda. Thanks for sharing. I've known Linda for more than 7 years or so and I have always known her as a "thin person" and I never would have guessed that she had ever struggled with her weight until she shared her journey with me. Yes, yes, yes. "Me Time" is important. I appreciate the great reminder. Take care, Mary