This week, I had the pleasure of shopping with one of my dearest friends, Lucy, who is a budget-savvy mom with a knack for scoring deals from the clearance racks at T.J. Maxx. Shopping alongside her is always a delight because she embodies the ideal of beauty — tall, slender, and with stunning hair. She’s practically a living mannequin. You know the type, right? No matter what she picks off the rack, it looks fabulous.
Maxi dress? Absolutely charming. Short romper? Flawless. I’m convinced she could wear anything and still look like royalty.
On the other hand, my own figure can present some challenges when it comes to finding the right outfit. However, fortune smiled upon us during this shopping trip. Just twenty minutes in, we found ourselves twirling in front of the dressing room mirrors, both wearing the same lovely floral dresses. What are the odds of two different women finding the same dress and both feeling fantastic in it? It was a moment of pure joy.
We high-fived at the checkout, ecstatic to snag these flattering dresses for just $20 each. Excited for a party later that evening, we were officially ready to shine.
“Double the hotness tonight!” I joked.
But a few hours later, I received a text from Lucy.
“Ugh. Why did I buy this dress again?”
It was clear to me that she bought it because she looked stunning in it.
“Because it highlighted your waist, showcased your legs beautifully, and had an incredible print! And it was only $20! That’s why, silly! See you tonight!”
In reply, I got a frowning emoji.
Unfortunately, Lucy didn’t show up in her floral dress that night. She had spent a lengthy 20 minutes in front of the mirror convincing herself that she didn’t look good. In fact, she told herself she looked unattractive.
I was taken aback. How could someone so beautiful perceive anything less than perfection in herself? I often find myself surprised by the amount of self-criticism voiced by gorgeous, accomplished women. And, if I’m being completely honest, I’ve been guilty of the same.
Can we talk about this, ladies?
It’s remarkable how many of us grapple with these feelings. How often have we uttered hurtful words about our bodies? Words like “fat” or “flabby”? Yes, it happens too often.
This is why I’m addressing you today. Sisters, if we harbor such strong dislike for our bodies, it’s time for a little exercise… in self-love.
Right now, I want you to join me in a brief exercise. Yes, you. “No way! I have great body confidence! Don’t make me do some silly self-love exercise!”
Oh really? Have you slipped into an outfit this week, glanced in the mirror, and let out an exasperated sigh because you weren’t pleased with what you saw? Have you snacked and immediately felt guilty? Or compared yourself to someone else, leading to feelings of inadequacy?
Yeah, I thought so. So, let’s take a moment together.
It might feel odd, maybe even uncomfortable, but it’s necessary. Because, mamas, our bodies — the ones we often criticize — are capable of incredible things.
They created life.
Beneath your skin, marked with scars, lies a miracle — your baby.
Those stretch marks tell the story of your child’s growth. They are a map filled with bumps, lumps, and lines that illustrate the journey you undertook.
So, let’s pause the self-loathing. At some point, we need to stop the cycle of negativity and embrace our bodies as the incredible creations they are. You must learn to love yourself as you are now. This doesn’t mean you can’t strive for change; it simply means that your current form deserves admiration too.
So, let’s take a moment to show appreciation for our extraordinary mom bodies. Ready? Let’s begin.
- Place Your Hands on Your Hips. Now, shake them. Yes, shake those hips! Because they are part of you, and in this moment, it’s all about enjoying your body. Sway and dance! Thank those hips for their role in making you a mother. They expanded for new life and made childbirth possible. So, let’s celebrate them! Say it loud: “Thank you, curvy hips!”
- Examine Your Stretch Marks. Feel them. Trace your fingers along those lines. Appreciate them! Each mark signifies a moment of growth, a testament to carrying a living being within you. Rejoice in those lines; they tell the story of motherhood. Say it with me: “Thank you, stretchy skin.”
- Embrace Your Belly. Wrap your arms around that belly, that pouch of skin. Love it. Remember those nine months of nurturing your baby, filled with cravings and moments of connection. That belly was once a home for your greatest gift. Honor it! Together, let’s say, “Thank you, soft belly.”
- Look at Your Child. You created that. Your body did that. Take pride in the fact that this incredible body was capable of delivering life. Don’t resent the changes; celebrate that your body made room for a new soul. Repeat after me: HOORAY FOR SPACE! HOORAY FOR LIFE! HOORAY FOR MY INCREDIBLE BODY!
Now, I urge you to keep your focus on your children instead of that mirror. Because, dear friend, you are stunning.
You are magnificent.
You are strong.
You are a mother.
And no reflection could ever encapsulate your true beauty and worth.
For more insights on your journey, consider reading our post on couples fertility journey for intracervical insemination. If you’re interested in supporting male fertility, check out this fertility booster for men. Lastly, for additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit IVF Babble.
In summary, it’s crucial to transform our self-perception and appreciate our bodies for all the miraculous things they accomplish. Let’s embrace self-love, celebrate our motherhood, and banish negativity from our reflections.
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