In the early years of adolescence, an experience with a close friend, Jamie, left a lasting impression on my body image. While we enjoyed ice cream on a sunny afternoon, she playfully placed her hand on my lower abdomen and exclaimed, “I absolutely love this!” It was a moment of comfort and acceptance; after all, she was my best friend. We had shared countless laugh-filled moments in dressing rooms and tried on swimsuits together, but I couldn’t help but wish I felt the same affection for my body as she did for mine. Her flat stomach contrasted sharply with my own, which had always had a natural curve.
From childhood, I was aware of my potbelly. Even as a slender kid, that soft curve just below my belly button was a constant presence. Puberty brought with it the realization that I could enjoy all my favorite foods, but they seemed to find a permanent home around my waist. No amount of dieting could change that; my body was simply built this way. In high school, I often wore a size 8, but I fell into the trap of believing that a smaller size would bring me happiness. I restricted my calories to a mere 1,200 a day and lost weight, yet my belly remained, a reminder that it was a part of me I couldn’t simply wish away.
Now, in my 40s and having given birth to three wonderful children, I have learned to embrace my belly. It’s not going anywhere. I run 40 miles each week, training for half marathons, and I feel my belly with each stride. It is a normal part of my body, just like me. After having children, my body changed, and I went up a few sizes, which is just another facet of normalcy. I’ve seen friends transform from a size 2 to an 8 after having kids, and they too are normal. Another mom in my circle enjoys nachos and margaritas, opting for walks to clear her mind rather than to lose weight—she’s a size 12 and radiates confidence. My favorite model, Megan, proudly showcases her beautiful curves, while my sister-in-law, who participates in competitive racing and boasts toned abs, represents another side of normal.
We often forget that normal encompasses a wide spectrum. All of us strive to look and feel our best, grappling with the genetics we were given. It’s easier to admire beauty in others without scrutinizing their imperfections, while we tend to do just that to ourselves. Our bellies are sensitive and protective, housing the nourishment we consume. They are the vessels for our children and deserve our love, regardless of their size.
There is no perfect body—except the one we inhabit right now. Whether you have a thigh gap or a potbelly or toned abs, every shape is perfection. It’s time we treat ourselves with the same kindness we offer our friends. We all deserve that love.
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Summary: Embracing our bodies, including the natural curves we carry, is a journey of self-acceptance. As we navigate the complexities of body image, it’s essential to remember the diversity of what is considered normal and to treat ourselves with the love we often reserve for others.
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