What a week it has been! Talk about a crazy winter storm!! If you live on the East Coast of the United States, I hope you are staying dry, safe, and warm!
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about love. There are so many different types of love, it is surprising that the English language uses only one word. Sanskrit, an ancient language used in yoga; Hinduism; Buddhism; and Jainism, has over 200 words for the word "love". Not to mention all the phrases one can use "love" in as well!
What a beautiful thing!
Think about all the different ways you could say "love" to someone. To your partner, your dog or cat, your child, your friend, the world, the earth, the trees, your eyes, your belly, your hair, your thighs. The list goes on and on. And I'm sure some of you cringed at at least two of those words...
Ok, be forewarned, I am going to go off on a little rant...but keep reading as it will make sense in the end. I promise!!
Rant time: In case you are one of the many people who are either A) disgusted by certain body parts that are not up to your "perfect" standards or B) not completely in love with your physical self for whatever reason, then hear me out. Your belly and thighs (and all of you for that matter...) should be loved as well! Those parts in particular (which are the one I hear about most as an RD and yoga teacher) digest your food, protect your spine, carry and support you throughout your day. What would you do if they were no longer able to do those things? Would you really love them more if they were thinner, more muscular, or more toned? You might say yes, but really think about it. Picture yourself with your perfect belly and thighs. Would that make the rest of your life easier or better? My guess is no. Toned abs and legs can't give you the things that matter most in life like love, laughter, and friendship.
Now, I am not saying you should stop exercising! Far from it, actually. I am saying that it probably should not be the end all be all of your life's goals. Having a strong core and legs can make the rest of your life easier by giving you the strength to climb mountains, swim oceans, and go on adventures with loved ones, but it should not be the basis for determining how much you love yourself.
"Know that you are beautiful!"
Keep up this week's mantra and really feel it. Believe it, Live it. Share it!!
Think of all the different ways you love each day. Whether it is a person, animal, phrase, etc. let me know in the comments something you love!!
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