By: Emily Turner
Updated: March 8, 2020
Originally Published: December 1, 2017
There was a time when I was troubled by the lines and creases that seemed to multiply around my waist. I found myself wincing at the stretch marks I acquired through motherhood, marks that faded and reappeared, never truly disappearing. I would tug and adjust the parts of my body I deemed undesirable, wishing they would stay in place. But once I released my hold, they would fall back to their natural positions, much to my disappointment. I felt like the best years of my body had slipped away.
After the birth of my children, I often wished for reassurance that I didn’t look like a new mom. I measured my worth by how quickly I could fit into my old jeans, longing for the days before pregnancy. I envied the young girls at the local pool, with their long, tanned legs and flawless skin, their youthful curves perfectly in place.
Back then, I viewed my body as a canvas meant to impress others. I felt like a mannequin, donning the latest trends dictated by society. Each day felt like a competition, and I dreaded the thought of aging and losing my youthful appearance, believing that without it, I would lose all beauty.
But then, I discovered the true purpose of a body: it exists for love. Perhaps you’ve been misled, thinking that being thin or toned makes you lovable. Maybe you’ve been conditioned to believe that smaller bodies are superior. The truth is, the healthiest version of you isn’t necessarily the leanest.
Ultimately, the only body we truly need is one capable of waking up each day to offer love. Can yours do that? Your body is your Soul-House, a testament to your life’s journey, reflecting both the joyful and painful moments that have shaped you.
Your body is meant for love, and regardless of its shape, you can express that love. It’s important to care for yourself—nourish your body with good food, enjoy long walks with loved ones, and ensure you get enough rest. However, do it for the love of yourself, not for the approval of others. Your presence in this world is needed to teach love in the unique, beautiful way only you can.
All the efforts we make for our bodies should stem from love, for diets and quick fixes will not cultivate self-love if it isn’t already present. Your body is your Soul House—can you love the vessel that holds your spirit?
I have learned to appreciate my body because I cherish my story. I delight in moments like cuddling my baby to sleep, hugging my older son, or the warmth of my partner’s embrace. Each loving interaction deserves recognition. Pause for a moment and express gratitude to your body for all it accomplishes, from preparing meals to carrying you through life’s adventures.
Thank your hands for nurturing and guiding your loved ones. Acknowledge your eyes for witnessing the beauty around you. Appreciate your mouth for sharing words of kindness and your ears for listening. Honor your belly for safeguarding your essential organs. And thank your legs and feet for supporting you on this extraordinary journey.
If you believe in a higher power, take a moment to thank them for seeing your body, soul, and spirit with unconditional love, for you were envisioned just as you are. With this perspective of gratitude, you might feel a surge of pride in your body—a vessel that loves—and you might just conclude, “I wouldn’t change a thing.”
For those seeking further insight on fertility and motherhood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy. Additionally, if you’re interested in boosting fertility, you can explore our fertility booster for men blog post. For comprehensive guidance in fertility care, visit this authoritative source.
Summary:
This article reflects on the journey towards self-acceptance and body love, emphasizing the importance of viewing the body as a vessel for love and experiences rather than a tool for impressing others. It encourages gratitude for the body’s capabilities and promotes self-love as the foundation for caring for oneself.