I’m All For Body Acceptance, But What About My Health?
In a world obsessed with diets and quick fixes for health, it's time to debunk an age-old myth. It turns out, you CAN achieve health without ever dieting again. The notion that health is synonymous with intentional weight loss is not only inaccurate, but also harmful. Research shows that 95-97% of intentional weight loss attempts fail, often leading to detrimental side effects such as increased risk of heart disease, slowed metabolism, and mental health issues like depression and low self-esteem. Clearly, the path to true health lies elsewhere.
So, where should our focus lie? Let's shift our attention to behaviors that are scientifically proven to promote overall well-being and vitality. These behaviors not only nurture our bodies but also support our mental and emotional health, creating a sustainable approach to living well.
After all, if it’s actual health that we’re after, then there’s no need to be putting all of our energy into appearance-based behaviors, right?
Health-Promoting Behaviors to Embrace
1. Eat Enough Food Throughout Each Day
Honoring your hunger and eating regularly throughout the day isn't just about avoiding hunger pangs; it's about fostering a healthy relationship with food. Studies show that consistent eating patterns can stabilize energy levels, prevent cycles of overeating, and improve cognitive function. Simple strategies like eating every three to four hours, being mindful of hunger cues, and planning meals in advance can make a significant difference.
2. Prioritize Staying Hydrated Daily
Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for maintaining bodily functions, from regulating temperature to delivering nutrients. Dehydration can impact mood, cognition, and even physical performance. To stay hydrated, carry a reusable water bottle, infuse water with flavors like Liquid IV or fresh fruits, and use reminders to ensure regular intake.
3. Participate in Intuitive Movement
Exercise shouldn't be punishment for what you eat; it should be a celebration of what your body can do. Intuitive movement involves listening to your body's needs and choosing activities that bring joy and fulfillment, whether it's yoga, walking in nature, dancing, or stretching. All forms of movement count toward improving physical and mental well-being.
4. Reduce Stress However Possible
In today's fast-paced world, stress seems inevitable. However, managing stress effectively is key to maintaining overall health. Practices such as establishing routines, developing coping skills, setting boundaries, and seeking support can significantly reduce stress levels. The benefits are profound, including better sleep, improved digestion, and enhanced immune function. Plus, who doesn’t just simply FEEL better when their stress is reduced?!
5. Strive for Adequate Sleep
Quality sleep is so important when it comes to health. During sleep, the body repairs tissues, consolidates memories, and regulates hormones critical for growth and metabolism. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful bedroom environment, and practicing relaxation techniques before bed can enhance sleep quality and overall well-being. Get those zzz’s!
6. Experience Restful Rest
You might be thinking, "obviously," but how often have you sat down to rest and spent the whole time feeling guilty for what you could be doing with that time? Doesn’t sound relaxing in my book. Just like your phone, you NEED to recharge. So reframe your guilt and remind yourself that resting without worry is better for your overall health! Try scheduling self-care and rest like a meeting, leave your work at work, and spend time with friends who recharge you!
Honoring Health Through Self-Respect
Ultimately, health is not entirely within our control, despite what diet and wellness cultures often claim. We can prioritize health-promoting behaviors diligently but still find ourselves facing illness, disease, or injury.
The reality is, living a life filled with restriction, deprivation, and stress on the body may inadvertently make us more susceptible to these health concerns. However, it's crucial to recognize that developing an illness or experiencing health challenges does not diminish our worth or make us any less deserving of respect and compassion.
We do not owe anyone “perfect health,” nor should we judge ourselves harshly if our health fluctuates. Instead, we can strive to do our best, nurturing ourselves with kindness and making choices that align with our individual well-being and happiness.
Ultimately, achieving and maintaining health without diets is a journey of self-discovery and self-care. It requires patience, compassion, and a commitment to nurturing your body and mind.
By prioritizing health-promoting behaviors over restrictive diets, you empower yourself to live a life filled with freedom and well-being. Remember, your body deserves respect and care, not punishment or deprivation.
What’s Next?
Looking to learn more about embracing yourself and your body without the harmful messages of a fatphobic, thin-obsessed world? Then join us inside The EmBODY Confidence Collective!
Led by body image coach Jess Fry, LPC, ADHD-CCSP, CSTS, this virtual space offers a supportive community where you can improve body image at your own pace. You'll gain access to a wealth of resources, including monthly live webinars with Jess and other experts, as well as monthly group coaching calls to work towards your personal goals alongside like-minded individuals.
We can’t wait to see you inside the Collective! ✨
