Lifestyles by Estelia … Embrace Who You Are

From birth we are conditioned to focus on appearance. Our weight and height are the first official facts sent to family and friends in birth announcements. Have you’ve ever said, “What a beautiful baby!” or “Who does she look like, mommy or daddy?” Honestly, I think we’re all guilty of this.

We even comment about how the dead look in their caskets! So it’s no wonder why we struggle to accept and love the physical self that we are. For those of you who are harsh self-critics, there skills you can learn to lessen the critical ways you view yourself and move toward self-love and acceptance.

• Stop comparing yourself to others: No one is perfect. You’ll always find someone with a better shape, better hair, or better smile. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on being your best self.

• Spend more time with people you love: It’s a fact being around critical people puts you in the same mindset. Surround yourself with positive thinkers who give compliments. You’ll feel better about them and yourself.

• Take time each day to focus on yourself: Take a yoga class, work-out to an exercise video or in a gym, enjoy the benefits of a walk or hike. Think about how good your body feels and know that you’re doing something healthy for yourself.

• Celebrate your gifts: Remind yourself that God has given you one body to occupy and nurture. Be grateful for your qualities and take the time to share your gratitude with others through kind words and deeds.