Celebrate Your Silhouette: 5 Ways to Love Your Body

It’s crazy to think a good portion of my younger years was spent obsessing over a boob job. I mean, I grew up in Orange County where plastic surgery is a right of passage for a girl on her 18th birthday, so I guess it’s really not that crazy. Lucky for me, I’m horrible at saving money, so I was never able to set aside the $10,000 to go under the knife. Instead, I accepted my itty-bitty titties and learned how to love myself for all the other assets I was given (emphasis on the ass).

But I get it, this kind of self-love is a lot easier said than done.

Research indicates that on average, women have 13 negative body thoughts daily. Meaning, one thought for every waking hour is focused on judging, comparing, or even despising the beauty of our bodies.

Even after years of practice, I still suffer from body image issues like everyone else. Sometimes I cringe when I catch a glimpse of my cellulite in the mirror, and I have arms with bat wings that would make The Dark Knight jealous.

However, through my journey towards tiny titty acceptance I discovered— it’s all in your head (hence the word “self-concious”). Once you learn how to keep your ego in check, then you can begin to lead a life where you feel confident, energized, and at peace with yourself.

Here are five ways to master your mindset and celebrate the body you have been gifted.

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1. Stand Tall, Stand Proud

We have a tendency to underestimate the power of posture. Having a solid stance is the first step to feeling confident and revamping your self-image. Start to carry yourself with pride by standing tall, keeping your shoulders back, chin lifted and a sparkling smile on your face. Tiny tweaks in body language not only changes body chemistry, but also opens you up to more love and opportunity.

2. Sweat For Sanity, Not Vanity

If you work out with the intention to change the way your body looks, you will never find joy in exercise. Yes, weight loss is a major side effect when it comes to working out, however your main motive behind any fitness routine should be for your own mental health. Sweating daily has the power to reduce anxiety, improve self-esteem, and transform your mind into a state of tranquility. Notice how good you feel after your next workout and carry that positive energy with you every time you break a sweat.

3. Make a List of What You Love

Rather than looking in a mirror nagging about the parts of your body you wish were different, try shifting your perspective by making a list of what you love! Don’t keep it limited to your physical body either, take note of different characteristics that make you, YOU! Then focus your thoughts on these qualities and let them shine through any chance you get.

4. Treat Yourself, Don't Cheat Yourself

For years I told myself it was ok to scarf down pizza, french fries, and/or cake, only to believe that my hard work deserved a cheat day. When in reality, I was only cheating myself. Your body is a powerhouse and works extremely hard for you everyday, so instead of rewarding it with greasy foods high in sugar, treat your body to nourishing meals that leave you feeling refueled and energized. When you eat good, you feel good — it’s that simple.

5. Shake What Your Mama Gave Ya

Anyone that knows me, knows I take my dance parties seriously. It doesn’t matter how tiny my tatas are, I like to shimmy and shake the shit out of them every morning. Dancing has been proven to boost confidence while making you feel more alive and present in your body. Try putting on your favorite jam and go with the groove (clothing is optional however, I don’t recommend it).

Honestly, I can’t thank my 18-year-old self enough for being too cheep to put my money where my mind was. Not that I would have regretted getting a boob job per say, but because I would have never learned these valuable lessons of self acceptance.

Now I want to know, how do you show your body some love?

I’m always looking for ways to step up my self-love game, so comment below with your personal practice and I’ll be sure to give it a try.

xx Fins & Kisses,

The Mermaid.