Self hate is what fuels unhealthy patterns of negative behavior.
You need to love your body in order to truly be at your healthiest! The major thing here is that you can actually love your body while trying to improve it at the same time. There’s a quote that sums this up perfectly:
“You can be both a masterpiece and a work-in-progress at the same time.”
When you truly love something, in my opinion, it means that you want it to reach its full potential. For example, any good parent wants their children to grow up to be successful. It’s the same way with your body: If you truly love your body, then you will do everything in your power to make sure that body is as healthy as possible. This may sound obvious, but you only get one body. There are no do-overs.
So why not make the most of the only body you’re ever going to have?
Psychologically, there is one major way that we can undermine ourselves. It’s called “moral licensing”, and it happens when we look at our food choices as either “good” or “bad.”
What happens is that anytime you do something good, you give yourself permission to do something “bad.” For example, you go to the gym so you decide to treat yourself to some ice cream.
And then the guilt you feel from doing something “bad” will only add more stress. Many people deal with stress by emotionally eating, which will only continue the cycle.
The better way to look at your behavior is in terms of whether or not your behavior gets you to your goal.
You must make sure that you have a healthy relationship with food.
Food IS NOT meant for stress relief. Let me repeat: food IS NOT meant for stress relief.
Food is meant for nourishment. Food is the fuel that we use to power our bodies.
There are much better (and healthier) ways to relieve your stress. Try exercise, yoga, listening to music, meditation, or even reading a book. The options are really endless.
Instead of emotional eating, pick up a new hobby. Anything to take your mind off the stresses of the day. Just don’t do it with food. Your body will thank you.
Please connect with us if you are seeking support or hoping to learn more about being part of a Supportive, Inclusive, Compassionate, and Kind community:
Join The MindReset!
Check out Events for support groups or live events:
- Follow The MindReset Facebook page
- Follow The MindReset Twitter
- Follow The MindReset Instagram
You are always welcome to connect directly with an individual from TMR at themindreset@gmail.com or (802) 377-MIND.
