Mirror mirror on the wall...

Living in a world where we can get anything at the tap of a screen or touch of a button, we are a society obsessed with instant gratification and rewards, this can be dangerous especially when it comes to weight loss. The desperation to be accepted socially leads the diet industry to take advantage of vulnerable people.

Losing weight isn't a new age thing, diets have been around forever and a day but the industry is bigger than ever and not so shockingly mental health is at an all time low. The constant ads on the TV and influencers promoting diet aids and drinks that will magically make fat melt away are hard to ignore. But I’ve come across this radical way of thinking, stay with me, how about we don’t waste all our time on counting calories, stop depriving ourselves of eating food that we desire and we start loving ourselves as we are?! I know, crazy right?! 

But I’m being totally honest with you, it’s time for our nation to step away from diet culture, it’s time for you to start loving your reflection just as you are (yep like Mr Darcy said to Bridget Jones). It’s not going to happen overnight but it is possible. As it’s Mental Health Awareness week and they’re focusing this year on body image, I thought I’d share some tips for you to start accepting who you flaws and all and helping you to look in the mirror with love instead of loathing. 

Challenge no. 1
Sit down in a quiet place where you can hear yourself think and write a list of 10 things that you’re thankful for when it comes to you and your body. For example, I am thankful for my legs that are strong and keep me travelling through life. I am thankful for my stomach carrying my children safely through pregnancy. I am thankful for my eyes allowing me to see the wonders of the world. Etc. 

Challenge no. 2
Take time to take care for your body, get yourself some moisturise, the more luxurious the better, take time to smooth the moisturiser into your skin, really taking care of you and noticing every part of your body, remembering your list of gratitudes and maybe you’ll come up with a few more. Keep repeating this as much as possible (daily if you can) and when you’re a pro at it, move to do it in front of the mirror. 

Challenge no. 3
How do you talk to yourself when you’re in the mirror? Notice your language, is it positive, negative or neutral? Would you talk to a friend this way? If no, then it’s time to change how you talk to yourself. Go back to your gratitude list, when we come from a place of thanks it’s almost impossible to have negative thoughts. Next time you start to put yourself down, stop, take a breath and find gratitude. 

I hope you find these challenges helpful, the more you do them the more of a positive impact they will have on your mental health. If you would like more challenges, tips and help, then come and join us in our girl power community. 

Always reach out if you need to talk, there are people here to guide, empower and support you. 

With love & gratitude, 
Ana Louise Bonasera 
Confidence & Clarity coach

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