Tag Archives: love

Motivational Monday: Greatness

13 Aug

Happy Monday!!! How was your weekend?  I wanted to start off this week by talking about greatness.  Over the past few weeks we have seen some of the most talented athletes perform some amazing feats.  From death defying dives off a 10 metre platform to the grace and beauty of gymnastics, and the hardcore endurance of the marathon runners.  One thing all these participants have in common is greatness.

But they didn’t get to this point overnight.  It takes years of hard work, and dedication to make it to the top!  And along the way there are many triumphs and tribulations.  If there is one common theme among the athletes I’ve heard from it’s this: each one had a less than ideal lead up to the game, yet there determination and self belief never wavered.  It was mind over matter.

But greatness isn’t reserved for a select few.  There is greatness in each of us.  It is just a matter of finding out your strengths and working towards a goal.

No dream or aspiration is too large to obtain if you are willing to work hard to achieve it.  Just like the humble lump of coal can become a dazzling diamond, you too have the potential to be something great!

Here’s to a week full of greatness.

-Sarah xo

If you could compete in any Olympic sport, what would it be?
We are all great! Tell me one thing that’s great about you?

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Motivation Monday: Why helping others matters

6 Aug

Hey movers and shakers! Happy Monday! I’d like to start off this week by telling you a quick story.

Picture this: It’s Monday morning rush our at the train station. Myself and the hoard of other 9 – 5ers are lining up at the ticket machines, patiently waiting for our turn to get the golden tickets and be on our way into town.  The train leaves in approximate 3 mins and 39 seconds. But who’s counting really…

The men and women around me are listening to Ipods, checking their email, and rattling through their wallets as we get closer to the front of the queue.  Nobody dare makes conversation.  It’s too early and they need their dose of caffeine before civilised human behaviour takes place.

The train is soon to arrive and I’m almost near the front.  There is an elderly lady a few spots in front of me at the machine now.  I can see she is confused, but everybody just ignores her.  Not their problem.  After a few seconds, I approach the lovely woman and ask is she needs a hand.  Clearly flustered, she says ‘Yes, please! I don’t understand this wretched machines.’

I said not to worry, they can be a little tricky at times.  I showed her which buttons to press and how to use her card to pay.  I could feel the pressure of the anxious liner upers as I took the time to show her the steps.  But soon enough she was on her way with ticket in hand and a smile on her face.

I took a brief look at the timetable as I took my place back in line. Darn I missed the train.  

But it didn’t matter to me one bit.  There would be another train.

What mattered was helping that lady.

I knew that simple gesture was small, but it mattered.  And the smile and thank you she gave me at the end made for a great start to the day.

So this week I urge you to do something great or small for someone just because you can.  Whether it be complimenting someone for their hard work, making and delivering a meal to someone you care about, smiling at a stranger on the street, or just being there for a friend in need.

All too often we get wrapped up in ourselves and forget about those around us.  But every day is a chance to change.  So lend a hand and help out in whatever way you can.  It will enrich your life and brighten the day of those around you.

Here’s to a happy, helpful, week ahead!

-Sarah xo

What will you do to help others this week?

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One step forward, two steps back

21 Jul

Sometimes despite our best intentions, we falter.  It starts with a small slip, something insignificant.  A ‘one off’ which really isn’t that big of a deal.  But then suddenly time ticks over and the trip ups start to accumulate.  And then suddenly you find yourself sliding down the mountain you fought so hard to climb up.

This is exactly what happened to me during the latter part of my semester this year.  The stress of studying, assessments, and exam preparation saw my weight take a landslide.  But no one really seemed to notice, so I just carried on as normal, telling myself that I would deal with it when exams were over and I had a break.

To be honest, I don’t weigh myself often at all, maybe once or twice a month.  I really don’t care to know that number.  I just try to tune in with how I’m feeling, how my clothes fit, and my energy levels as a guide.  By the end of the semester I felt lethargic, and weary, so I suspected my weight had taken a bit of a dip.  But I wasn’t prepared for the number that stared back at me when I hopped on the scale.

This is why I hate the scales. Seeing that number made me feel like a failure.  I felt so ashamed.  How could I be back here once again??? And so the negative thinking started…

I knew I needed to get back on track, but I just couldn’t find the energy to do so.  I slipped into what I call ‘autopilot’.  The solution was simple, but I just couldn’t seem to do it!

I didn’t dare talk about it either; instead I just blamed myself.

I think part of the problem with mental illness, whether it be depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive behaviour, or an eating disorder, is the stigma attached to it.  Many of the sufferers feel like they can’t talk about what’s really affecting them because their friends, family, and society may not understand.  A lot of people just assume that those suffering choose to be a particular way, and that they should just snap out of it.  If only it were that simple.

So I’m breaking the mould and telling you that it’s ok to talk about it.  It doesn’t make you any less of a person.

Everybody has their demons.

I’m facing mine, and hope this encourages you to face yours too (whatever it might be).  I asked for help from my doctor, I talked to my friends, and I told my family exactly what I needed to get back on track.  Support is imperative.  Those who truly love you will be there for you!

The other important thing is to have a positive outlook.  Maintain optimism in the face of adversity.  Your mindset is the most powerful tool you have.

The thought manifests as the word;

The word manifests as the deed;

The deed develops into habit;

And habit hardens into character;

So watch the thought and its ways with care,

And let it spring from love

Born out of concern for all beings…

As the shadow follows the body,

As we think, so we become.

-Buddha, Dhammapada

Indian philosopher & religious leader (563 BC – 483 BC)

I’m writing this piece honestly, but I’m not searching for sympathy.  In fact the exact opposite! I know I’m strong enough to get through this, but others may be struggling and are too scared to pipe up.  So this is for them.  To say it’s ok to ask for help if you falter.  Break the stigma, hold your head high, and march towards success.

If I can do it, you can too.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from an eating disorder or other mental illness, please consider getting help from a professional.  Search for specialty services in your area, or talk to your doctor about treatment options.  

How do you stay positive in life?
Let’s share some inspirational quotes!

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More than the sum of my parts

16 Jun

“If you constantly live in a state of ‘if only…then’, you completely miss out on the joy of just being.”

Yesterday I stumbled across this quote and it really got me thinking about my past.  I used to be a very ‘grass is greener on the other side’ kind of gal. Never satisfied with where I was.  Always looking to improve myself in some capacity, believing I should be more independent, have a better job, or be fitter than a fiddle.  And while I couldn’t change some of my circumstances, there was one thing I could control: the way I looked.

If only I had straight hair…

If only I had a toned tummy…

If only

If only

If only

I was young, naive and insecure.  I truly believed that looking a certain way equated to happiness, and success.  I mean that is what the media wants us to believe right?!?! Otherwise there would be no need for make-up, or gym memberships, or the newest diet to get your bikini bod in no time.  Physical perfection becomes synonymous with happiness.  And we buy into it.

For me it meant wearing the right clothes, exercising like a fiend, and making sure my hair was just so.  From the outside it appeared that I had it going on, but on the inside I was far from happy.  I distinctly remember looking in the mirror one day and realising something that made me truly sad:  I defined myself by my looks, my physical fitness, and my diet.  But I didn’t know who I was anymore!  I think if my friends were to describe me back then it would probably be something along the lines of ‘Oh that’s Sarah, she works out a lot and eats boring food’.  After realising this I took a long hard look at the way I wanted my life to be and decided to make a change because

I am more than the sum of my parts.

I am smart, and caring, and loving.  I’d even like to think I’m funny at times too.  And surely that must count for something!  My pursuit of perfection had turned from healthy to obsession.  Untangling myself is taking time.  Letting go of bad habits and replacing them with more helpful ones won’t happen overnight.  But I am being patient, and it is paying off.

Today I am right where I need to be.  I do things for the right reasons.  I exercise to enjoy the feel good endorphins, I eat to enjoy different tastes and nourish my body, and I dress according to my personal style and flair.  But more importantly I smile!  Because I am more than the sum of my physical parts.  As I release myself from these internal struggles I start to see the world and life more clearly.  I believe we are all a ‘work in progress’, and life will continue to throw challenges our way.  However, I encourage you to embrace the struggles, as they are not a sign of weakness, but merely a way to test our will and prove our strength.

Being honest about where you are in life takes courage.  I am far from what I once was, but not yet what I am going to be.  And so I leave you with this quote to ponder…

Remember it’s never too late to change the road you’re on.

-Sarah xo

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Fun Facts & Fiesta Fried Rice

3 Jun

Hey guys, how is your weekend going??? I spent yesterday successfully writing up notes for some of my subjects and also procrastinating like crazy by spending too much time on Pinterest. That website just sucks me in every time!!!

Today I’d like to take a little time to respond to the many generous awards I’ve received from fellow bloggers.  I know I’m probably a little late getting back to everyone, but better late then never right?  So a big thank you to the following blogs for my nomination (and if I missed you I’m sorry!!!):

inspiring and healthy running in london, Whit Likes Fit, and barefootbeing for the Liebster Blog Award

madisoncary for the One lovely blog award

The Burned Hand and Run. Dog. Cat. Me. for the Kreativ Blogger Award

Building This Nest for the Versatile Blogger Award

Andrea Drugay for the Versatile Blogger AND Very Inspiring Blogger Award

and I’ve also been tagged by Cats London Marathon and will respond to her question below.

I am humbled and honoured! Now on to the second part: facts about me.  From the number of awards listed above I think I need to list about 387 different facts about me, but that’s just not going to happen.  So here are a few fun facts as well as my response to Cat’s question:

1.  My favourite TV show at the moment is Revenge.  I love all the twists and turns it takes…plus Joshua Bowman is kinda hot.

2.  I like my food to be ridiculously hot! If it’s not steaming it’s not hot enough.  I’m also that crazy person that boils the kettle, makes a hot drink, then sticks it in the microwave.

3.  I don’t like cheese.  Growing up I think I realised cheese didn’t agree with me that well so I just steered clear.  I don’t miss it because well….I can’t quite remember what it tastes like!

4.  I love Kitchen appliances!!! If I had room/could afford a dehydrator, vitamix, cuisinart, or kitchenaid I would have them.  But for now my stick blender and mini food processor will suffice.

5.  I still haven’t finished my chocolate easter bunny.  I like chocolate, but just in small doses. Very small doses apparently.

6.  Peter Alexander pyjamas own my heart.  They are super cute and comfy.  Maybe that’s why it’s so hard to get out of bed in the morning.

So comfy!

7.  Lately I’m loving circuit training!  I mix up my moves swapping between dumbbell/barbell exercises, the TRX, kettlebells, the fitball, and plyometric exercises.  I just mastered the one leg stability ball hamstring curl.  This exercise is amazing for your hamstrings and butt!

8.  My favourite number is 15.  Maybe it’s because I was born on the 15th.  Second to that is number 8.

9.  These fashion faux pas kind of bug me: socks and sandals, crocs (they are not shoes, I don’t care how comfortable they are!), and guys who wear skinny jeans but kind of way too low down.

10.  I’d love to write a book one day.  I’m not quite sure what about, but it’s gonna happen.

And now on to answering Cat’s question: I’m frequently lacking inspiration for healthy quick lunches, and often end up with a tin of mackerel (good oils and protein), some microwave Basmati (low GI carbs), and a bit of lettuce (fibre and water, and one of my ’5-a-day’). Can you help with a simple, tasty suggestion (that doesn’t include banana or avocado, as I’m allergic!).

I’m all about quick and healthy lunches which use up leftovers.  Here’s one of my favourites that I pack and just quickly heat up in the microwave before eating.

Fiesta Fried Rice

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cooking Time: 15 mins

Serves 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp garlic infused olive oil
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, finely diced (remove seeds to reduce heat
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup reduced salt chicken stock
  • 1 large chicken breast, cooked & chopped
  • 1.25 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 cup iceburg lettuce, shredded
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Method:

  1. Heat oil in non-stick fry pan over medium heat.  Add the carrot, celery, tomato, jalapeno and ground cumin. Saute for 5 – 10 mins, or until vegetables soften.
  2. Add chicken stock, cooked chicken, and brown rice to pan.  Cover pan and let ingredients heat through for 5 mins.
  3. Turn off heat and mix through chopped coriander and lettuce.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The great thing about this recipe is that you can customise it according to your preferences.  Feel free to use a variety of different vegetables.  Red capsicum or corn would be a great addition!  I love taking the remainders for lunch the next day, and it’s just as good cold as reheated.

Now for the nominees! Instead of bestowing a particular award on other fellow bloggers I thought I’d just share a few of my favourite blogs with you.  Go check them out and see what you think!

Fitness Loving Mom - Fab recipes, workout videos, and tons more health related articles

Abz ‘n’ Oats - Inspiring journey of a fitness lover and recently graduated RN!

The Camel Life – BreezyK is sarcastic, whitty, and always good for a laugh.

Peace Love Nutrition – If you Love yoga, travel, and food, you’ll love Jocelyn

Just Eat Love – met this lovely gal at my photography workshop.  Go check out her great recipes (her blueberry and cucumber crumble is one of my favs!) and she has some great recipes!

Well thanks for listening to my rambles today, and thank you to all who nominated me for the awards.  Wishing you all a fantastic finish to your weekend.

-Sarah xo

What fashion faux pas really bug you?
Do you have a favourite or lucky number?

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Stupid Food Rules & Chewy Chocolate Cookies

5 May

I have always believed there is power in truth.  And today I am coming clean about a few things.  Firstly, I’m not perfect. Nor do I wish to be.  There was a point in time where I strived to be the ‘perfect daughter’ or the ‘perfect girlfriend’ or have the ‘perfect body’ and it almost killed me.  Striving for perfection is what led me to an eating disorder.  It affected all areas of my life: my relationships, my family, my friends, my work, and my ability to study.  Everything that had been going so well just slowly started to fade away as I became deeper and more obsessed with food. Or really the lack thereof.

But one day I decided enough was enough.  Life was worth living, and I knew I needed to change.

I can’t say the process has been easy, but it has been worth it.  I think recovery for each person is very much an individual thing. Each person has their own journey of self-discovery, slowly undoing the damage that was caused and learning to love themselves again.

When I was in the initial stages of recovery (circa 2010), I decided to seek out the advice of a dietitian.  She and I worked closely together, sticking to a meal plan to keep me on track and get my weight moving in the right direction.  Regular eating and increasing portions became easier with time, but the mental side was a real struggle.  Telling that mean voice in your head to just shut up.

No you’re not fat.

No you’re not lazy.

Yes you should and can eat dessert.

Overcoming stupid food rules and being kinder to myself is how I know I’ve come a long way.  You know you’re a little more healed when you can laugh at all the silly restrictions you used to put on yourself.  My mom and I were doing this yesterday, and I was in stitches remembering how pedantic I used to be.  The conversation went a little like this:

Me: ‘Hey do you remember there was a time when I wouldn’t eat fruit?’

Mom: ‘Yeah you were nuts.’

Me: ‘I know, but it wasn’t me, it was the eating disorder.  That thing yelled stupid sh*t at me like ‘Ohmygod fruit has sugar! Sugar is the devil! Eat that and die biatch’

Mom: ‘Haha, I’m glad those days are behind us!’

Me: ‘Yeah me too.  Now let’s make cookies and get high on sugar!!! Mwa ha ha ha’

I’ve overcome a good many food fears, but it didn’t happen overnight.  For me it was a process of unlearning bad habits, and replacing them with more helpful ones.

From no fat, to low-fat, to ‘Do you think bacon goes with this?’ (obviously I’m making up for lost time!)

bacon wrapped caramelized sesame asparagus @ How Sweet It Is (Click on picture for recipe)

From chicken breasts, to chicken thighs, to ‘I’d like my steak medium rare thanks.’

From lacklustre, to ho-hum, to loving life.

And from self-hate, to self-acceptance, to ‘Damn girl nice booty!’

I feel like a little more me and a little less e.d. every day.  But like I said, I’m not perfect.  I still have my bad days too.  The difference is now I choose life.  I accept those bad days for what they are and move forward.  Because I deserve to be happy, I deserve to work towards my goals, and you better believe I deserve to eat cookies!

Prep Time: 10 minutes         Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Makes about 30 cookies

Ingredients

  • 6 egg whites at room temperature
  • pinch sea salt
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar (or other natural sweetener)
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 40g dairy free dark chocolate (70% or greater), chopped
  • ½ cup + 1 tbsp unsalted dry roasted hazelnuts, chopped

Method

  1. Line 2 cookie sheets with baking paper. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F)
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
  3. Gradually add coconut sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  4. Fold in cocoa powder, vanilla, chocolate and ½ cup hazelnuts and mix until combined.
  5. Drop batter by rounded tablespoon onto prepared cookie sheets, dividing evenly.  Garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts.
  6. Bake 1 cookie sheet at a time on oven’s middle rack for 10 to 12 minutes per sheet, until cookies are no longer shiny.
  7. Allow to cool 5 minutes before removing from sheet.  Transfer to cooling rack.
  8. When completely cool, store cookies in air tight container, lined with baking paper.  Cookies keep up to 1 week at room temperature, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To download a printable version click here: Chewy Chocolate Cookies

These cookies are like slightly sticky with a chewy texture that is similar to a brownie.  On their own they are delicious, but if you are feeling in the mood for something even more satisfying, then do what I did: make an ice-cream sandwich!!!

Gluten & Dairy Free Ice-Cream Sandwiches

Simply make up a batch of banana soft serve, spread a small portion in between two cookies, and stick it in the freezer for 10 – 15 minutes to set. Pure bliss!

What fears have you overcome?
What is your favourite type of frozen dessert?

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Motivational Monday: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

16 Apr

Some mornings I wake up before my alarm and jump right out of bed feeling refreshed and ready to go.  Other days I feel like I need one of these to lift me out from under my cosy sheets…

And those are the days when you know you will need an extra push to stay positive so you can align with your goals, and keep on trucking.  So today I thought I’d let the pictures do the talking. Here are some of my favourite motivational quotes and pictures that I use to keep me going on those days when I need a good pick-me-up.

And some motivation to get moving and rock your workout

And remember this…

So pick the sign on the left and make it happen!

Happy Monday :)
Are you a morning person?
How do you stay motivated and on top of your game?

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Motivational Monday: Laugh Your Way to Better Health

13 Feb

All my life I have suffered from digestive issues, but last year was one of the worst.  After seeking help from dietitians and doctors, I was referred to a gastroenterologist for further investigation.  During the consult, I was poked, prodded, and asked several questions about my health history.  Following the Spanish Inquisition, the specialist sighed and said ‘I think surgery is the best option to explore the cause of your issues’.   Deep down I knew this was necessary, but I was nervous and scared no less.

I scheduled in for the procedures and left with booklets of information and consent forms.  When I got home I immediately jumped on the phone to my friend to discuss everything.  I explained that I would be having a colonoscopy and endoscopy at the same time to see if anything was wrong.

 

There was an awkward silence….

 

and then a giggle…..

 

‘Oh my god….You’re gonna be a pig on the spit!!!!’

We both cracked up laughing.  Immediately all my worries and stress faded away.  Finding the humor in my situation gave me a more positive outlook, and really helped to manage the anxiety I was experiencing.

Let’s face it, life can be stressful at times.  Juggling the many demands of your life such as work, family commitments, and your daily sweat session can leave you feeling frazzled and worn out.  Over time the effects of increased stress can add up and take a toll on your health.  Some of these effects include:

  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased muscle tension
  • Increase in the stress hormone cortisol
  • Suppression of the immune system
  • Digestive issues & increase in symptoms of irritable bowel, such as diarrhoea
  • Increased risk of depression or other mental health disorders

As you can see stress impacts our health in many ways so managing it is essential.  There are many effective ways to manage stress, which include physical exercise, relaxation techniques, and counselling.  But if you’re after immediate relief from the build-up of emotions from stress, one intervention may be particularly useful:  Laughter.

Research suggests that laughter and humour are the perfect antidote to combat the effects of stress.  The benefits of laughter therapy include:

  • Reduced feelings of stress
  • Reduced pain perception
  • Improved mood and release of emotional tension
  • Enhanced immune function

As you can see, having a laugh is good for both your mind and body.  One of the interesting impacts of laughter is it’s ability to improve immune function.  It does this through several mechanisms which include

  • blocking the production of the stress hormone cortisol, and
  • Increasing the production and release of immunoenhancers such as beta-endorphin.
  • Improving Natural Killer (NK) cell activity

Natural Killer cells are a type of immune cell that attack foreign substances in the body, such as virus’ or cancer cells.  Low levels of NK lead to decreased disease resistance and increased morbidity in cancer and HIV patients.  In these patients, laughter therapy may be a useful intervention to boost immune function.

Laughter can help your health in many ways, and best of all, it’s free!  Next time you feel like the weighed down by stress, take a laughter break!!!  Check  out some funny Youtube videos, read a joke book, or browse for some silly images.  It only takes a moment to lift your spirits, and the positive effects are well worth it!  Have a laugh, share a giggle, or crack a joke.  It may even save your life.

Here are a few funnies to get you started:

Swedish fish sushi anyone?

 

Pimp yo cupcake dawg!

 

Finding the humour in life's daily mishaps

Or have a laugh at my expense

I don't even know what I'm doing here...

What’s your favourite funny website?
When was the last time you laughed so hard you were in stitches?

References

Stress and health. Larzelere MM – Prim Care – 01-DEC-2008; 35(4): 839-56, MEDLINE®

Bennett, M. P., Zeller, J. M., Rosenberg, L., & McCann, J. (2003). The effect of mirthful laughter on stress and natural killer cell activity. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 9(2), 38-45. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.library.usyd.edu.au/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/204826463?accountid=14757

Humor: an antidote for stress. Wooten, P. Holistic nursing practice, ISSN 0887-9311, 01/1996, Volume 10, Issue 2, p. 49

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Friday Link Love

27 Jan

Friday Link Love

Happy Friday all!  Today is a collection of links I’m loving from around the blogosphere and web.  Hope you enjoy!

1. Mark Sisson from Mark’s Daily Apple lists his Top 6 Anti-Inflammatory, and sardines is one of them!

2.  Chelsea from Clean Eating Chelsea gives us the low down on beans, beans, beans.  Find out the nutrition info, a simple cooking method, and some yummy recipes to use them in!

3.  The lovely Kris from i heart wellness tells us how to rock our confidence.  You gotta love yourself for who you are!

4.  How’s your Build A Better Breakfast challenge going??? If you’re needing some fresh ideas Averie from Love Veggies and Yoga lists her favourite breakfast recipes

5.  Pinterest is my new love (you can follow me here)!    If you’re not sure what I’m talking check out this post by Janetha G. from Meals and Moves.

6.  For me the kitchen is the heart of the home.  Take a look at these gorgeous french kitchens from Becoming Madame.

7.  Are you thankful for what you have?  If one of your goals is to be more positive about your life, why not take up The Gratitude Challenge with Angela from Oh She Glows.

8.  If you’re in the market for a new pair of running shoes, check out this review of the ‘On-Cloud’ shoes by Lindsay from Cotter Crunch.

Questions:

  • What new blogs or articles are you reading?
  • How are you going with your goals for this year?  If you need some motivation check out these posts.

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beYOUtiful

13 Jan

I used to think that I’d be happier if I had smaller thighs.  In high school I HATED my thighs.  I would have given anything to have toned slender legs like Miranda Kerr.

High School Flashback!

So I joined a gym and over the years I made my thighs smaller.  But you know what, it didn’t really make me any happier.  When my thighs were smaller I just picked on myself about something else, like my curly hair or pale skin.

Body image really is a funny thing.  Some people seem to have no issues with their image, and go through life loving themselves just the way they are.  And I say power to them.  They have managed to love themselves despite the incessant media messages to be skinner, more tan, or fit as a fiddle.  But I’d have to say that those people are probably a minority.

A number does not define you

Although low self-esteem and poor body image has been seen as mainly a female issue, recent evidence suggests men are increasingly dissatisfied with the way they look.  “We have found that a very large percentage of men, as many as 85 per cent, are dissatisfied in terms of weight; around half want to lose weight and half want to gain weight. They are looking for the “ideal” – minimal body fat and a large amount of muscle”, says Helen Fawkner, a PhD psychology student at the University of Melbourne (source).

Yesterday, the Sydney Morning Herald, published an article which addresses the topic of muscle dysmorphia.  Muscle dysmorphia or ‘Manorexia’, is an “extreme form of wanting to be really, really big”, says Stuart Murray, a Sydney based psychologist.  In the pursuit of physical perfection, men become dedicated to exercise and some will take steroid drugs, and supplements which can be harmful to their health.  Although our society deems exercise as a healthy endeavour, it can also be a harmful obsession.   Two warning signs may be exercising when sick, or sacrificing work and other commitments to make time for exercise, says Ms Fawkner.

It seems we have become body obsessed, and achieving the ideal body is more important than anything else.

Has our society really become this vain?

What about the endearing qualities a person has like being kind, funny, or smart? Surely those are more important.  Our life should not defined by a perpetual quest for the ideal physique as this can lead to depression, anxiety, or other body image and eating disorders that are becoming more common.  Yes having defined abs is nice, but at the end of the day looks will fade as we age.  We must learn to love ourselves for who we are; our unique traits are what makes us individuals.

Embracing my inner dork

Embrace your eccentricities, and rekindle kindness, compassion, and love for yourself and others.  You are beYOUtiful after all.

Questions:

  • What are your thoughts on body image and the media?
  • What is one of your best features?

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