Starting at an early age, society places a lot of pressure on women to look a certain way.
Magazines, television, and the internet are full of flawless women with perfectly toned abs, long legs, and backsides you could bounce a quarter off of. These societal ideals are sometimes so unrealistic that it can be easy for young girls to quickly lose self-esteem and feel as if they don’t measure up.
Often when we try to pursue unrealistic expectations, anxiety increases and the effort to lose weight and get fit begins to add to the stresses of life instead of relieving them. Getting in shape should be about the desire to live a healthy lifestyle and making yourself feel better. It should not be about trying to replicate the airbrushed model on a magazine cover at the grocery store.
Here are three ways to empower and emancipate yourself from society’s idealistic body-image pressures.
1. It is scientifically proven!
Research shows that stress can keep us from losing weight, and on the flip side might even cause more weight gain. Even when we are eating well and exercising, an excessive amount of stress can counteract all of our good efforts. That’s why it’s so important to combine both fitness and wellness together. By reducing stress and increasing relaxation we can actually significantly improve our weight loss efforts. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing to keep your mind healthy and balanced.
2. When you look good, you feel good!
This is so true, and you know it. You’ve been working your butt off in the gym, eating a healthy clean diet, and there you are strutting your stuff in front of the bathroom mirror saying, “Damn, girl. Lookin’ good!” The best part of it is that you are doing it for yourself.
Self-esteem rises when you improve your image on your terms. I am a big believer in fitness and wellness journaling. Keeping track of what you eat and daily exercise holds you accountable. Hang it on the fridge, share it with friends and family, and they can help hold you to your goals too! It’s a win-win! Every team should have a cheering section.
3. Improving your looks improves your health!
Working out and eating healthy foods will make you feel better because your body will be functioning better than ever. When you feel good, you also look good. Your energy levels will increase and you will be ready to take on the world.
Looking good and feeling good at the same time is the goal! Are you ready to take back your power? Are you ready to be the best possible version of yourself you can be? I know I am! Enjoy your healthy new lifestyle knowing that this a journey, not a diet or fad. This is all about empowering us as women and letting our true selves shine.