10 Steps To Love Your Body

Do you ever stand in front of the mirror dreaming of a different body or feeling like life would have been better if only you had smaller thighs, a flatter tummy, or there was simply less of you?

These are all signs of a not-so-good body image. But guess what? No matter what the magazines, Holly-Wood or your friends tell you, looking like Kate Moss or Brad Pitt isn't the cure. What's most important is that you feel good about who you are. High self-esteem is important for a healthy, balanced lifestyle - and it's a definite must if successful weight loss is one of your goals.

So now it's time for you to smile back at that image in the mirror and value all the wonderful characteristics about YOU!

1. Recognize your special qualities.
Make a list of all your positive qualities - don't include your physical looks. Are you kind? Artistic? Honest? Do you make people laugh? Post your list where you'll see it every day.

2. Put your body back together.
Most of us with negative body images have divided our bodies into good and bad parts. " My butt's okay, but my stomach is fat and my arms are flabby." Reconnect with your body by appreciating how it all works to keep you going.

3. Remember the kid inside you.
Give yourself permission not to be perfect. Inside all of us is the kid we used to be - the kid who didn't have to worry about everything. Remember that kid, and give yourself a break! Place a photo of yourself as a child in your bedroom, office, or in your notebook and remember to spoil yourself and laugh a little.

4. Enjoy your food.
Eating is a pleasure. Don't deprive yourself or consider eating an evil act. If you allow yourself to enjoy some of the food you like, you'll be less likely to overeat. In turn, your body won't feel bloated and uncomfortable.

5. Indulge in body pleasures.
One step towards being kind to your body is to indulge yourself. Get a message, take a long, hot bath, use lotions that smell good, or treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure.

6. Speak positively.
Pay attention to your self- talk. It's amazing how often we put ourselves down throughout the day- it's time to stop! Each time to catch yourself making critical comments on yourself, fight back by immediately complementing yourself.

7. See the world realistically.
It's common to compare ourselves to people in magazines or movies, but this can make you feel self-conscious. If you want to compare yourself to others, look at the real people around you they come in different shapes and sizes!

8. Dress in clothes that fit.
When we feel badly about our bodies, we often dress in " big-size " clothes, waiting until we lose weight before we buy something we like. But why? Find attractive clothes that fit your current size.

9. Be active.
Movement and exercise can make you and your body feel terrific! Not only those exercise help boost your mood, it stimulates your muscles, making you feel more alive.

10. Thrive!
Living well will help you feel better about who you are and how you look.
Strive to make your personal and professional lives fulfilling. You are a unique, amazing person - don't forget it!