Sunday, 16th February 2025
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How to treat your body like someone you truly love

How do you feel when you look in the mirror? Do you smile, or do you immediately focus on the things you don’t like? Many people struggle with accepting their bodies because society constantly pushes unrealistic beauty standards. We are told to be thinner, have clearer skin, or achieve a certain shape, making it easy…
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How do you feel when you look in the mirror? Do you smile, or do you immediately focus on the things you don’t like? Many people struggle with accepting their bodies because society constantly pushes unrealistic beauty standards. We are told to be thinner, have clearer skin, or achieve a certain shape, making it easy to feel like we are never enough.

But your body is more than just its appearance. It carries you through life, helps you experience joy, and keeps you alive. Instead of fighting against it, what if you started treating it with the love and respect it deserves?

If you are ready to stop being hard on yourself and start feeling more confident, here are simple ways to build a better relationship with your body.

READ ALSO: Lots of women have turned dating, love to business — Timini Egbuson

1. Change how you talk to yourself
The way you speak to yourself matters. If you constantly say, “I hate my body” or “I wish I looked different,” you are feeding negative thoughts. Imagine saying those things to a friend—wouldn’t it be hurtful?

Start replacing negative self-talk with kindness. Instead of saying, “I don’t like my stomach,” say, “My body supports me every day, and I am grateful for it.” Speak to yourself with the same care you would show someone you love.

2. Focus on what your body can do
Your body is not just for looking good—it is for living. It helps you walk, dance, hug loved ones, and even heal from sickness. Celebrate what your body allows you to do instead of focusing on what it looks like.
Small things matter. Your hands help you write, your legs take you where you need to go, and your heart beats every second to keep you alive. Appreciate these simple yet powerful things.

3. Eat to nourish, not to punish
Many people feel guilty about eating certain foods, but food is not the enemy. It is the fuel your body needs to function well. Instead of constantly dieting or restricting yourself, focus on eating nutritious meals that make your body feel strong and energised.

Enjoy a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Allow yourself treats without guilt. The key is to listen to your body—eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full.

4. Move your body in ways you enjoy
Exercise should never feel like punishment. If you don’t enjoy running, don’t force yourself to do it. Instead, find a way to move your body that makes you happy.

Dance to your favourite songs, go for a walk, try swimming, do yoga, or even play with your pet. Moving your body helps reduce stress, improves mood, and makes you feel more connected to yourself.

5. Stop comparing yourself to others
Social media makes it easy to compare yourself to people who look “perfect.” But remember, most images online are edited, filtered, or posed to look a certain way. Nobody looks flawless all the time.

Focus on your own journey. Your body is unique, and that is what makes it beautiful. Stop chasing unrealistic standards and appreciate the beauty in being yourself.

6. Take care of your skin with love
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it deserves care. Instead of criticising it, focus on taking care of it. Use gentle skincare products, stay hydrated, and protect your skin from the sun. Treating your skin with love helps you feel more confident in it.

7. Wear clothes that make you feel good
Fashion should be about expressing yourself, not following unrealistic trends. Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. Dress for yourself, not for the approval of others.

8. Prioritise rest and relaxation

Your body works hard every day, so it deserves rest. Get enough sleep, take breaks when you need to, and find time to relax. Stress and exhaustion can negatively affect how you feel about yourself, so make self-care a priority.

9. Surround yourself with positivity
The people around you influence how you see yourself. Spend time with those who uplift you and avoid toxic environments that make you feel bad about your body. Follow social media accounts that promote body positivity and self-love.

10. Celebrate small wins
Every step towards self-love matters. Maybe you spoke kindly to yourself today, or you appreciated something about your body for the first time. Celebrate these moments. They are proof that you are growing.

Final thoughts
Your body is your home. It carries you through life, allows you to experience joy, and deserves kindness. Treat it with love, listen to its needs, and appreciate everything it does for you.
Start today by saying one kind thing to yourself. You deserve it.

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