Seeing old photos of good times with friends should make me happy.
I get that change is inevitable.
That comparison is the thief of joy and all that.
Breaking free from the body comparison trap is a common and complex problem that neuropsychologistDr.
Sanam Hafeezhelps patients navigate in her practice.
Here’s how to leave your past body in the past and love your present self.
Rail-thin actresses permeated all the TV screens and magazines I spent so much time with.
I also found that the thinner and more in shape I was, the better I was treated.
According to clinical psychologistDr.
Carol Chu-Peralta, life experiences like these create associations in our brains that are hard to break free from.
In other words, our mind begins to believe that thinness equates to happiness.
Over time, experts say these experiences end up chipping away at our self-worth.
This constant comparison of ourselves to unattainable ideals can lead to more serious issues.
Here are a few ways to get started.
But the truth is, all of us inevitably take what our body does for us daily for granted.
When theseself-judgmental thoughtscreep in, Chu-Peralta says to be mindful of what these thoughts tell you.
“Stepping away gives you a chance to disconnect from these potentially skewed perceptions,” says Scolari.
She recommends using this hiatus to focus on activities that make you feel good about your body.
Photo:SHAPE / Getty Images
Incorporate positive affirmations.Saying positive affirmations about our bodies aloud helps shift our mindsets to be more kind and positive.
The key is to choose affirmations you truly believe.
“Then practice it multiple times a day in a mindful manner.
Getty Images
Focus on the words and how they feel in your mind and body while you say the affirmation.”
Surround yourself with people who love and accept their bodies.
Who we spend time with impacts our thoughts, beliefs and even our body image.
Getty Images
The Bottom Line
Embracing your current body is a journey.
