As women, our relationships with our bodies are often marked by judgment. Ideals—some more realistic than others—are displayed everywhere. Or they’re celebrated online or on TV. Nowadays, we judge both thinness and curvy figures equally—it doesn’t matter. Everyone has an opinion about other people’s bodies, but we’re also our own harshest critics once we become moms.
All my life, I’ve struggled (and still struggle) with my body image. I haven’t always been the size I am now; I’ve been heavier and lighter, according to my scale!! At work the other day, I was talking with my coworker and telling her about my desire to start working out again. I was talking to her about my body shape, the time when I weighed 187 lbs, and my desire to find the motivation to take care of myself again. Gently and wisely, she replied, “But you’ve had two kids, and you’re gorgeous!! Be kind to yourself—you have nothing to be ashamed of.” Once I got home, I looked at myself in the mirror and took note of the parts of my body that bother me.
Then I thought about what she’d said. The stretch marks and certain curves are reminders of those two incredible moments when I brought life into the world. My body, having created two beautiful little princesses, is bound to bear some scars. And my eyes? Have they forgotten what it’s all about?
I believe that no matter what shape our bodies are in, the most important part of this personal journey is becoming aware of our bodies’ limits and unique qualities—and the challenges they’ve endured. Eating well and exercising shouldn’t be punishments because the image we see in the mirror disappoints us, but rather a gift we give our bodies to help them continue supporting us every day.
Since every body and every woman is different, we need to stop trying to achieve the bodies of celebrities and instead make changes to celebrate our bodies, take care of them, and give them the chance to keep performing miracles. After all, being a woman means that our bodies are strong and capable—they can help us overcome the most intense pain, the heaviest burdens, and love with our whole being. It’s a wonderful gift that we must nurture!