Have you ever found yourself criticising your body, comparing it to others, or feeling ashamed of how you look? If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle with negative body image, which can have a significant impact on their mental health and relationships.
One way to improve your relationship with your body is by practicing self-compassion. Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness, concern, and support that you would offer to a close friend who is struggling. It means acknowledging and accepting your imperfections and being gentle with yourself when you make mistakes or face challenges.
Here are some tips on how to use self-compassion to improve your relationship with your body:
Notice your inner critic
The first step in practicing self-compassion is to become aware of your negative self-talk. Pay attention to the thoughts that come up when you look at yourself in the mirror or think about your body. Do you criticize yourself for not being thin enough, tall enough, or attractive enough? Once you recognize your negative self-talk, you can begin to challenge it.
Reframe your negative self-talk
When you notice your inner critic, try to reframe the thought in a more positive way. For example, if you find yourself thinking, "I hate my thighs," try saying to yourself, "My thighs are strong and help me move through the world." Remember that your body is more than just its appearance. It's capable of amazing things, and you should focus on what it can do rather than what it looks like.
Practice self-care
Taking care of your body is an act of self-compassion. Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and engage in regular exercise that you enjoy. When you treat your body with kindness and respect, you'll feel better both physically and mentally.
Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being present and non-judgmental in the moment. When you're practicing mindfulness, you're fully engaged in what you're doing and not distracted by negative thoughts or worries. Try incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, such as by taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath or to notice the sensations in your body.
Practice gratitude
Gratitude involves recognizing and appreciating the good things in your life. When you focus on the positive aspects of your body and what it can do, you'll be less likely to criticize it. Try making a list of things you're grateful for about your body, such as your strong legs or your ability to see the world around you.
Using self-compassion to improve your relationship with your body takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and remember that it's okay to make mistakes. By treating yourself with kindness and respect, you'll develop a healthier and more positive relationship with your body, which can improve your overall well-being and relationships.
If you would like to talk about this some more and develop your self-compassion practice, give our team a call to arrange an appointment on (03) 9882-8874.
This blog was written and prepared by Hannah Gersh – Psychologist at Melbourne Wellbeing Group.