Every morning, the first thing I do is step onto the scale. I often wonder why I subject myself to this ritual, allowing the numbers to define my sense of achievement or failure from the previous day. Deep down, I know it’s an unhealthy habit, yet it persists. Since becoming a parent, I’ve had a whirlwind of thoughts about my body, many of which are far from kind.
I should really work on my pushups or sit-ups.
I shouldn’t have devoured the leftover grilled cheese and every single fry from my child’s plate.
That second (or third) glass of wine was probably a mistake.
I need to commit to a fitness routine—starting tomorrow.
Green smoothies for life? Oh, the thought of that is daunting.
While I dwell on these perceived “failings,” I often overlook the incredible things my body accomplishes daily. Thankfully, I’m beginning to challenge those negative narratives and rewire the way I perceive my body.
I know I’m not alone in this struggle, so let’s remind ourselves that our bodies are extraordinary and deserve appreciation that goes far beyond the numbers on a scale. Consider this:
- Our bodies create life.
- A simple kiss from our lips can heal.
- Our fingers can tame wild hair and manage the flailing limbs of toddlers.
- Hands are used for countless acts—cleaning, comforting, and nurturing.
- Our arms bear the weight of pots and pans, while we chop and sauté, often ending with scraps in the trash.
We vacuum, scrub floors, and find mysteries like dried toothpaste on the back of the toilet. We sing in the bath while navigating unexpected situations, like removing a floating toy that defies logic. Our bodies engage in playful wrestling, but we also know when to say, “Enough is enough.”
Even when we’re not actively exercising, our bodies are capable of movement; jumping, running, lifting. They carry us up stairs, often with a sleeping child in tow, praying for a few more moments of peace. Our voices convey love and discipline, while our bodies dance to the rhythm of ’80s music, delighting our children.
As parents, we develop a sixth sense for detecting dishonesty in our little ones, and our arms stretch wide, embracing them all at once. We repeatedly tuck them in, only to eventually shout, “For crying out loud, go to sleep!” In the middle of the night, we rise to soothe and comfort, while our ears pick up on the soft sounds of their breathing, their unspoken words, and even our own inner struggles.
Our bodies perform the miraculous, the mundane, the extraordinary, and the tedious. Truly, they are remarkable. Moving forward, I plan to treat my body as I would a cherished friend—embracing its quirks instead of reducing it to mere numbers and self-critical thoughts.
Let’s commit to this journey together.
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In summary, it’s essential to recognize the strength and capabilities of our bodies beyond the numbers we see on a scale. Let’s embrace and celebrate our bodies for all they do.