Chapter 1: The Path to Self-Acceptance

Accepting my body as it is has been a significant journey for me.

During the months of April and May, I frequently heard comments such as, “You’ve put on weight,” and “What have you been eating? Your cheeks look fuller.” It was undeniable; my weight gain was apparent to those who knew me before this change. Initially, I brushed off these remarks, as I had always wished to gain a bit of weight. However, as the comments multiplied, they began to affect me.

I found myself comparing my figure to that of slender celebrities like Tyla and Ayra Starr, who sport flat stomachs and slender frames. Longing for my previous physique started to consume me. While the comments weighed heavily on me (it’s actually quite impolite to comment on someone's body, but good luck persuading people otherwise), I also realized that I needed to play an active role in accepting my current body.

One day, I stumbled upon a book in the library titled "You Are Not a Before Picture: How to Finally Make Peace with Your Body for Good," by Alex Light. This book has been a game changer for me. Light discusses various topics, including diet culture and fat-phobia. Even though I don’t identify as overweight, the book’s insights are invaluable for anyone seeking self-acceptance.

In one chapter, Light emphasizes that gaining weight is perfectly acceptable. She states, “Your body has supported you throughout your life thus far—this is something to celebrate. It doesn’t deserve to be treated with disdain, shame, or hatred. You need to treat your body with care; you deserve nothing but kindness.” This message resonated deeply with me, reinforcing that my body deserves kindness regardless of its size.

I also discovered the concept of body neutrality, which encourages acceptance of one's body without fixation on its appearance. Light explains, “Body neutrality advocates for recognizing your body as it is, valuing its abilities and characteristics beyond physicality. It’s fine if you don’t love how it looks, as long as this perception doesn’t hinder your life and you appreciate its functions.”

A particular quote that has lingered with me is: “You are so much more than your body.” This powerful statement reminded me that my identity extends far beyond my physical appearance. I possess numerous qualities that define me, such as my sense of humor and the love I hold for others.

I am still navigating my journey toward body love. Books like the one I mentioned have been instrumental in helping me embrace my body as it is—regardless of weight fluctuations—and resist the pull of diet culture or harmful behaviors that could lead to disordered eating. Instead, I aim to appreciate my body for its capabilities and contributions to my life.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. How has your experience been with body acceptance? Do you embrace your body as it is, or do you struggle with how your weight has changed? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Chapter 2: Seeking Inspiration

In the pursuit of self-love, I found valuable resources that complemented my journey.

The first video, "Can't Accept Your Body? WATCH THIS!" provides insightful perspectives on body acceptance and encourages viewers to embrace their unique selves.

The second video, "How To Love Your Body | Sarah Doyle | TEDxHa'pennyBridge," offers inspiration and practical advice for developing a positive relationship with your body.