Ways to show your body your appreciation

If you’ve been wanting to jump on that “self-care” train, one of the best things you can do is show your body your appreciation.

Here are some fun things to try:

Buy something that fits you perfectly. 

It doesn’t matter what the size number on the label is. Don’t squeeze into clothes that don’t fit to avoid choosing something that feels truly comfortable. 

Engage in positive touch. 

Whether that is with a pet, the floor, a friend or partner, or a trusted professional, touch is essential for mental wellness. Trading foot massages with a friend, having someone play with your hair, wrestling with your kids, even rolling around mindfully on the floor and feeling the pressure of the floor against your body, can be profound moments of recuperation in our isolated world.

Move! 

Notice how each of your joints moves, how your breath and heart rate adjust to your activity, how your limbs can make shapes and express inner feelings. Move in any way you like and rather than judging the look or fitness or ability of your body, notice what your body can do: bend, stretch, fold, curl, rotate, open, and close. 

Your body is incredible! 

Take some time to appreciate all the miraculous things you can do, and take a break from the judgment and criticism that often sneaks up on us.