Learning to Love the Skin You’re In
I remember being in middle school and feeling all sorts of ways about my body. Back then, I was so self-conscious about having no breasts that I’d stuff my bra with tissues, hoping to look like I had curves. At the time, I truly believed it would make me feel more confident, more “grown-up.” Looking back now, it’s easy to smile at how much I thought those little things mattered, as if they defined my worth.
Fast forward to today, and my relationship with my body has completely changed. Motherhood played a huge role in that transformation. My chest, which I once felt insecure about, became a source of nourishment and love for my daughter, while pregnancy taught me just how incredible my body truly is. Watching it grow, adapt, and bring life into the world was humbling and miraculous. Every stretch mark and curve became a part of something so much bigger—a testament to strength, resilience, and love.
However, becoming a mom is not the only reason we should celebrate our bodies. Whether it’s the endurance to power through a busy day, the joy of dancing like nobody’s watching, or simply the way your body supports you every day, it’s something to celebrate. It carries you, allows you to experience life, and holds the stories that make you who you are. Every scar, freckle, curve, or quirk is part of your story—one that’s worth honoring and loving right now
What is Body Kindness?
Body kindness is about learning to respect and appreciate your body for all that it does for you. It’s about shifting the focus away from appearance and toward gratitude. It’s okay if you don’t love every part of yourself all the time. What matters is how you speak to yourself, the patience you show, and the kindness you give.
How to Practice Body Kindness
1. Change the Conversation: When you catch yourself being critical, pause and reframe. What is something your body has done today that you’re proud of?
2. Practice Gratitude: Celebrate your body’s ability to heal, carry you through each day, and adapt to challenges.
3. Nourish Your Body: Rest when you’re tired, eat foods that make you feel good, and move in ways that bring you joy, not punishment.
Why Journaling Can Help
Journaling is one of the best ways to connect with your body on a deeper level. Writing down your thoughts and feelings helps you reflect, process, and uncover patterns in how you view yourself. It’s like having a conversation with yourself, one where you can be honest, encouraging, and kind.
Journal Prompts for Body Kindness
Take a moment to reflect and rebuild your relationship with your body:
1. What are three things your body has done for you this week that you’re grateful for?
2. Write about a time when you felt proud of your body for its strength or resilience.
3. What are some ways your perspective on your body has changed over time?
4. If your body could write you a thank-you note, what would it say?
5. What’s one kind thing you can do for your body this week?
Your body is more than just how it looks—it’s a testament to your strength, your story, and your purpose. Journaling can help you see that more clearly, giving you a space to celebrate your body and practice self-kindness every day. Be kind to it, and it will give you so much more in return.
A Special Shoutout to Mommas
To all the moms out there—this one’s for you. Let’s be real: we literally tear our bodies apart for our children, and they don’t even care! They just want snacks. But here’s the thing: you are so beautiful. Every mark, every curve, every inch of you tells a story of love and sacrifice. Your body may not look like it once did, but it’s a testament to your strength and the life you’ve brought into this world.
Take a moment today to appreciate yourself—not just as a mom, but as a woman who gives so much and keeps showing up, even on the hardest days. You’re incredible, and your beauty shines in ways that go far beyond what the world can see.
Let’s Connect!
Your body’s journey is personal, but it doesn’t have to be one you walk alone. If you’re struggling with body kindness or just need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out. I’d love to hear your story—whether it’s about overcoming insecurities, like my middle school tissue-stuffing days, or moments when you started to embrace the beauty of your body’s strength and resilience.
Your growth matters, and sharing it can inspire others (and maybe even yourself). Let’s keep this conversation going—because kindness, especially toward ourselves, is worth talking about.