How to Feel Full Without the Cupcake

Are you one of those people that never had to worry about what you ate, or how you looked, and now you can’t figure out why you hate looking in the mirror? Or are you one of those people that has struggled her whole life with a desire to be skinny?

Let’s face it; most of us have struggled, or know someone who struggles with accepting our bodies. Consider the time spent picking yourself apart in the mirror, or complaining with girlfriends, or talking about a diet, or feeling guilty over a meal. Whether you are conscience of it or not, all of these judgemental activities create negative feelings, which breed more judgement and negative thoughts; and not just about our bodies! Think about it: if you are feeling anxious, upset, depressed, or mad about your body, what kind of behavior follows? Probably not acts of generosity, selflessness, laughter, and peace. Now, if you aren’t seeking a life of happiness, confidence, and inner calm, then there is no need to continue reading; keep telling yourself how gross you look in those skinny jeans!

Some of the most toxic things we do is judge, feel guilty, and put ourselves down. If you decided that you want to change this negative thought cycle (congrats!), it will take time, but it is possible to create a significant change in all aspects of your life by starting with your self talk about your body. Simply countering negative thoughts with positive ones reconditions your perception of yourself. Let’s call these “mantras.” Shifting your negative thoughts to positive ones makes you feel better, which in turn dictates behaviors that are congruent with feeling good. Maybe you decide to go on a walk and enjoy the sun? Or maybe you push yourself a little bit harder at the gym? Or you help a stranger who shows you immense gratitude? See how that works? You move through your day with inner satisfaction and don’t need that cupcake to make you feel good. Please don’t expect to lose weight and feel better immediately; you are up against decades of negative thought behavior. Retraining your thoughts takes time; BE PATIENT with yourself. You can always go back to being mean.

Body Image Mantras

I am beauty.

I am whole just as I am.

I am more than a number on a scale.

I am not my body.

I am grateful for my body.

I am kind to myself.

I refuse to feel bad about my body.

I refuse to feel bad about food.

I release all that is not for my greater good.

I take care of myself. I am strong. I am healthy.

I am not controlled by food.