This week, I was out shopping with one of my dearest friends, Emily. She’s the ultimate bargain hunter, always scoring great deals at T.J. Maxx. Shopping with her is a joy because she’s effortlessly stunning—tall, slender, and with hair that looks like it belongs on a magazine cover. You know the type? She could grab anything off the rack and make it look fabulous.
Maxi dress? Adorable. Cute jumpsuit? Absolutely perfect. I’m convinced she could tumble into a pile of hay and still emerge looking like royalty. Truly, she is one remarkable mama.
Now, I have my own body challenges when it comes to finding the right fit, but this particular day was different. Twenty minutes into our shopping spree, we found ourselves twirling in front of the dressing room mirrors, both wearing matching floral dresses. What are the odds of that? It was a delightful moment, one I won’t forget.
We exchanged high-fives at checkout, thrilled to leave with our flattering finds for just $20. We had a party to attend later, and we were officially ready to shine.
“Tonight’s going to be fabulous!” I joked.
“Double the fabulousness!” she responded cheerfully.
But just a few hours later, I received a text from Emily.
“Ugh. What made me buy this dress again?”
To me, it was crystal clear; she bought it because she looked phenomenal in it.
“Because it accentuated your waist, highlighted your legs, and the print is to die for! And did I mention it was only $20? That’s why, silly! See you tonight!”
Her reply was a frowning emoji.
Emily didn’t show up in her floral dress that night. Instead, she spent 20 minutes in front of the mirror convincing herself of how unattractive she looked. I was taken aback. How could someone so beautiful perceive anything other than perfection? It’s astonishing how many women, even those who are gorgeous and talented, struggle with self-criticism. I, too, have found myself guilty of similar thoughts.
Let’s Have a Heart-to-Heart
It’s disheartening how many of us grapple with negative self-talk regarding our bodies. How many times have we uttered unkind words about ourselves—labels like “fat” or “jiggly”? It’s time to change that narrative.
If we truly harbor such disdain for our bodies, it’s time for a little exercise… in self-love.
Take a moment with me. Yes, you! “Oh no, I don’t need this! I have body confidence!” you might say. Really? Have you slipped into an outfit this week and huffed because you didn’t like what you saw? Have you indulged in a snack and felt a wave of guilt? Have you compared yourself to someone else and felt inferior?
If any of these resonate, settle in. I promise this will only take a minute.
It might feel a bit awkward, but it’s essential. Remember, the bodies we often criticize are miraculous.
Each stretch mark and scar tells a story of creating life. Your baby. Those stretch marks are a testament to your journey, marking the moments of growth and change. So, if you catch yourself feeling disappointed in the mirror, it’s time to change that mindset. We must stop the cycle of self-loathing and embrace our bodies as the incredible vessels they are.
Celebrate Your Beautiful, Evolving Mom Bods
Are you with me? Let’s go:
- Place your hands on your hips. Shake them! Yes, dance! Celebrate those curves. They are a reminder of the life they helped create. Thank them for that. Say it: “Thank you, curvy hips!”
- Examine your stretch marks. Feel them. Appreciate them. Each line is a symbol of growth, of the life you nurtured within. Say it: “Thank you, stretchy skin!”
- Wrap your arms around your belly. Love every inch of it. Remember the joy of carrying your child and all the moments you spent together. That tummy was once a home. Say it: “Thank you, soft belly!”
- Now, look at your child. Your body achieved something extraordinary. Take pride in that. Don’t resent your body for the changes it underwent to bring forth life. Repeat: “HOORAY FOR SPACE! HOORAY FOR LIFE! HOORAY FOR MY INCREDIBLE BODY!”
Now, do yourself a favor: Focus on your children, not on the mirror. Because guess what? You are beautiful. You are strong. You are a mother. No mirror can ever capture your true worth.
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Summary
In a heartfelt exploration of body image, the article encourages mothers to embrace self-love and acceptance. It highlights the importance of recognizing the beauty in our bodies, celebrating the journey of motherhood, and shifting focus from self-criticism to appreciation.