Positive affirmations are a big part of my daily life.If I didn't do them I don't think I would be able to look in the mirror.Looking in the mirror is a big struggle when you don't believe you match up to societies impossible standards.Girls as young as 5 and 6 are becoming increasingly concerned about their weight and appearance.It's getting just as bad for men too,there are plenty of adverts shaming men for not being the muscular Action Man types that the media hound them with everyday.To try and ground myself in the reality and gain some perspective,these affirmations really help me to create a more positive atmosphere.
1. "I deserve to take up space in the world"
I believe this is a quote from the Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. This is a great affirmation to say when you are feeling helpless or unimportant.You can be vast and brilliant and you deserve to be here as much as anyone else.
2. "I am worthy of love."
This one has helped me through some very tough times.You are worthy of love no matter who you are or where you come from.Love isn't just reserved for the successful,the healthy or the rich.
3. "Fat isn't a bad word."
You hear so many people saying "Does this make me look fat?" and the other person will say "no, you look beautiful not fat".Why can't they be both? Fat is whispered in hushed tones and shouted as taunts and I think it's unnecessary.You can be fat,you can be thin,or you can be anything in between.If you're healthy and happy then that's great.Actually,even if you're not healthy,you're still wonderful and deserve everything you could want!
4. " It is okay for me to love myself."
It isn't vain or self absorbed to love yourself and your body.You are capable of great things and that should be celebrated! When we start dictating our happiness and not the media,true acceptance of ourselves and others will come.
5."Thank you (body part) for doing (whatever they do.)"
I know this sounds funny but I find this really helpful.Thank your legs for carrying you everywhere.Thank your eyes for seeing what the world has to offer.Your body is going to be with you your whole life,so learning to honour and respect it can only improve your relationship with yourself!
Although it takes time,I definitely think these affirmations are really useful in helping to improve your body image.I like to say some when I'm getting ready in the morning,it's a great way to set myself up for the day!
I'd love to know if anyone else has any affirmations they use.Let me know!
This is a really great post! It is worrying that such young girls are so weight/body conscious. I read somewhere that some healthy children were considered obese by doctors which is insane :s This isn't really an affirmation but is kind of a reality check basically saying that you're luckier than a lot of people so be grateful for what you have (something a long those lines...they're not as great or positive as yours;p)
ReplyDeleteLife as a Petite
Thank you! It's horrible isn't it? I've heard stories of children going home with letters telling them they're overweight.That is a great affirmation,thinking about how lucky I am to be safe and healthy is a very positive thought! xx
ReplyDeleteAs step mamma to two teenagers, this really struck a chord with me, they have such low self esteem. It's so so difficult fior girls (and boys and adults and everyone) to just be themselves without all the negativity out in the world. Do they teach the importance of loving yourself in schools? Not enough, by any stretch. Such great affirmations, whizzing this to my girlies right now!
ReplyDeleteM x Life Outside London
I'm glad I could help! I wish there was more body positive talk around,there definitely wasn't when I was at school,but people do seem to be opening up to the idea more.It's great that you're trying to create a lovely and supportive environment for you and your family! Good luck :) xx
ReplyDeleteI love this post! It's good to read something positive, all I see in magazines are 'How to lose weight' etc and I'm like 'Well where's the magazines that are saying don't worry about cellulite and all that because it's perfectly normal?' Number 5 is my favourite on your list, people definitely take their health and able-bodiness for granted xxx
ReplyDeleteI completely agree! It's a shame that when the media says something is "ugly" that lots of people believe it.We can try to do positive things to counteract those though :) xxx
ReplyDeleteI love affirmations. I write them out as often as possible. My white board currently has "I am Fit and Energized' and "I run therefore I am a runner".
ReplyDeleteThey're great! I love affirmations that give you motivation.It definitely seems to improve my mood.x
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I love affirmations and these are all relate able to everyone too, thanks for sharing :D
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xx
Hopefully if people say them enough,they start to believe them :).You're welcome! xx
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