One of the challenges all parents face is not passing our own insecurities down to our kids. This is easier said than done. While it isn’t hard to tell our children that all bodies are beautiful, it can be difficult to model that behavior. This is especially true for mothers who are finding it difficult to adapt to how their bodies look after giving birth.
The simple reality is that, while we are all tempted to follow Kim Kardashian’s post-pregnancy diet and fitness regimen, this is not the way we want our children to feel. For that reason, instead of spending time and money trying to get your body to look how you think it is supposed to look, it is beneficial to work on embracing your body.
Here are some tips to help you get there.
Buy clothing for your body as it is now
The idea of aspirational shopping is an incredible feat of marketing genius. It gets you to buy clothes that don’t fit in the hope that this will motivate you to get slimmer. It works like a charm for the companies selling clothing. For you, however, it only contributes to a feeling of inferiority. Your kids may pick up on this no matter how well you hide it, and start living with a similar sense that their bodies are not good enough as they are.
Start shopping for the body you have. Instead of buying clothes you don’t like because you only plan on wearing them until you get into “better” shape, buy clothes that look great and feel great right now. You can get beautiful plus size clothing that is both comfortable and flattering.
There are stores which aim specifically for these two worlds to meet. Calypsa is a swimwear brand that sells plus size bathing suits. You’ll find swimwear that caters to not just different sizes but different body types as well, because body types should not all look the same.
Treat your body
When we don’t love our bodies, we often treat them badly. This can happen on a subconscious level. Instead of eating things that make us feel good, we eat things that our bodies respond badly to. Instead of doing a skincare regime with products that feel amazing, we neglect our skin.
Take some time to treat your body to the things it really wants. Have a spa day or spend a day using body and face masks. Luxuriate in a bath, taking your time instead of rushing. These simple actions can help you fall in love with your body again. It also shows your family that you know you deserve the best for your body.
Speak to a therapist
Many people have body dysmorphia issues that they simply cannot deal with all on their own. You may have had issues with your body since childhood and never quite felt at home in it. If so, speaking to a therapist may be the best decision you ever make.
A therapist can help you confront the messaging that told you your body wasn’t good enough. By getting it out into the open, you can start breaking down those messages. This also helps you identify the kind of messaging to avoid around your kids, and what to say and do instead.
Embracing your body is the best use of your time and resources. Don’t fall for the celebrity idea of what a body should look like, especially after the changes it goes through during pregnancy. All bodies are beautiful, and this is something it takes time to learn.
