We all look into the mirror every day. What do you see? What do you say to yourself? Are you gentle and appreciative? Are you judgmental? Are you proud? What kind of body image do you have?
Body image is a person’s perception or attitude towards their physical appearance. It encompasses how you see yourself, how you feel about your looks, and how you believe others perceive you.
Self-talk is so important when it comes to your own body image. You are our own worst critic. What you say to yourself matters more than you know. It guides you on what you choose to wear, your mood, and how you interact with others on a daily basis.
Embrace what your body is capable of. As you look at your life, look at what it has seen you through, or what it is currently helping you to endure. When you are going through a life challenge, like cancer treatment, it is easy to focus on the hair loss, the scars, and the fatigue in your eyes. Sometimes you don’t even recognize who you are looking at in the mirror. Instead, be proud of your resilience, accepting of the way your body naturally changes, and confident in your appearance.
I challenge you to build yourself up every day. Talk to yourself as you would to a close friend or family member. You would point out their beauty and their strength, not their flaws. Positive body image plays a huge role in overall physical and mental health. Every morning when you look in the morning, start your day with appreciation for the body you are in.
Some of my favorite phrases to share with others who want to start practicing positive self-talk are:
- “I am proud of my body.”
- “I am grateful for what my body has gotten me through.”
- “I am resilient.”
- “I am strong.”
- “I am beautiful.”
- “You got this!”
Lori Sumner, is a physician assistant and has her master’s in health sciences and has practiced medicine for almost 30 years in the Charlotte/Lake Norman area. She is married to her husband, Mark and they have 3 sons. In May of 2017, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through her own breast cancer journey she saw the need for more health and wellness resources for cancer patients and her interest in solving the need grew. Through Anchor Health Coaching, founded in May 2023, It is her mission to empower breast cancer patients with understanding and knowledge by leading you through your breast cancer journey so that you can return to the things that matter most.
By: Lori Sumner, MHS, PA-C | Anchor Health Coaching
