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A mindless scroll throughyour camera rollcan bring about mixed emotions.
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On the flip side, this stroll down memory lane can also trigger some harsh self-comparison.
Wow, look at how toned my abs were ten years ago.
My skin was so much tighter and brighter back then.
I cant believe I used to be such a fit and fast runner.
Maybe youhad a babywithin the past decade or recovered fromdisordered eating.
Or perhaps your metabolism just doesnt work the way it did when you were a teen.
It would takereal systemic changeto shift that toxic messagingwhich, unfortunately, isnt such a quick fix.
Challenge negative thoughts by grounding yourself with the facts.
I used to be in way better shape.
I was much prettier when I was younger.
Sometimes,negative self-talkis so automatic that we dont even realize how unkindly we speak to ourselves.
Reframe your relationship with your body by focusing on its function.
And you cant exactly force yourself to appreciate every single part of your body.
What does that look like in practice?
Lets go back to the example of stretch marks.
Aesthetically, they may be very visible signs that youve grown and changed in size.
This approach can make self-compassion a little bit more manageable and realistic, Dr. Daniels says.
Write down what you really admire about yourself.
Think of your inner child or future, older self.
Remember when we asked if you would be as harsh to your loved ones?
you as a cute-as-hell old person in 30, 40, 50 years).
If youre not a big fan of the whole healing your inner child thing, not a problem.
(Hint: Its probably the latter.)
Resist the temptation to constantly scroll through your camera roll.
Reevaluate who youre following on social mediaand who youre surrounding yourself with IRL.
Dont punish yourself with clothes that no longer fit or feel comfortable.
(If youre overwhelmed by the mere thought of reassessing your wardrobe, try these therapist-approvedcloset organization tips.)
Still not convinced that you’re free to feel good about your current form?
Know that youre certainly not alone.
