I’m sorry for what I said when… I felt Fat.

Yes I thought this title would draw your attention.

As women we just love the F word. We use it to talk to ourselves and we use it to describe how we are feeling and as a way to connect to one another. When the truth is what we really feel is unworthy, unlovable, unattractive, ugly, uncomfortable, disconnected… the list goes on.

As many of you know I am all for –

Self Acceptance

Body Positivity

Self Love

A Non-Dieting Approach

Intuitive Eating

Intuitive Movement

But of late I’ve been experiencing an emotional rollercoaster. My heart has been heavy and my mind a battle field.

My source of comfort – FOOD. Emotional eating, extra snacking, huge meals, alcohol, sweet treats, more snacking. Followed closely by guilt and plans to detox and eat healthily.

I want to share this with you because, if like me, you’ve struggled with food and your body for a number of years I want to you know that this behaviour is OK. We never truly reach an END destination when it comes to Body Love and Acceptance.

This journey is a forever practice.

When life throws us curve balls we are bound to clasp at coping strategies – often ones we know have comforted us in the past.

What is most important is that we come back to a loving, non judgemental approach. We take time to understand what is driving these behaviours.

As part of this I wanted to share with you an apology letter I’ve written to my own body. This is an exercise you might choose to apply when you need some support.

Dear Body,

I’m sorry stomach for insisting you be flatter and less visible.

I’m sorry upper thighs for judging your cellulite and jiggle when you walk wearing your gym shorts.

Feet I’m sorry that I look at you with disgust and wish that you were less flat and large.

Body I’m sorry that I do not value your individual shape.

Body please forgive me for not listening to you and your needs. I’m sorry that we have not been more connected and in tune with one another. I’m also sorry for feeding you foods when you are not hungry and for allowing you to feel uncomfortable and lethargic. I’m also sorry that I then show you in guilt and toxic energy.

I’m sorry I long for a more slender figure and that I do not appreciate your beauty and magnificence at all times. I’m sorry I do not shower you in gratitude for allowing me to function healthily and experience this life.

Body please forgive me.

Body I’m sorry.

Body I love you.

Yours forever,

Pip

I hope in reading this I’ve reminded you of the importance of leaning into compassion and kindness when it comes to your relationship with your body and your self.

Wonderful women, you’ve got this.

Big Love

Pip