Mindful Body Acceptance

Many of us are so used to criticizing our bodies, we don’t even notice ourselves doing it.

We see ourselves naked and scoff at our belly. Our thighs. Our skin.

We think,

“If only that weren’t so big.”

“I have to lose weight.”

“I wish I looked different.”

We look at our face in the mirror and focus on our imperfections, our wrinkles, the features we think shouldn’t be like they are.

It can become so ingrained in our habits and our self-talk that it comes as naturally to us as breathing.

Critiquing our body can become part of our daily, sometimes hourly dialogue with ourself.

And from the outside, we are reminded of our supposed imperfections all the time – on movie screens; on social media; in clothing ads featuring airbrushed models.

We often forget that bodies are not made to be perfect… and that even the idea of perfection is a construct.

Most of all, we forget that our body is a living, breathing system that supports is in being alive.

We can consciously change this habit. And when we do, we begin to see—and feel—that these thought patterns are not necessary, and certainly not helpful to our happiness.

Even if we want to be healthier or slim down, it’s been scientifically proven that being a jerk to ourself does not effect lasting change.

(pause a while...)

If possible, do this meditation wearing very little or no clothing at all. If that’s not comfortable for you, wear something that makes you feel at ease.

Lie down somewhere where you can stretch and feel held by the ground, or by something soft. If you’re in bed, try to do this at a time where you won’t fall asleep—but if you do, that’s fine, too!

Close your eyes. Take in the sounds around you. Notice how it feels to be resting comfortably; to be doing something loving and kind for yourself.

Feel the sensation of the fabric or the ground beneath you, and of any clothing you are wearing. Notice the feeling of the air against your skin.

Notice what it feels like just to pause. Rest in this noticing for a few minutes.

(pause)

When you’re ready, open your eyes. Look at your feet. What comes to mind?