That mean voice that especially likes to chime in during your workout with words like “You’re moving too slow ” Or, “You should really look away from the mirror because it makes you look fat”  And, “Everyone can see your muffin top through your tank…”

That mean voice is strong and persistent. No matter how many times you may try to tune it out, you can’t. And after years of listening to that voice, you may start to believe what it’s telling you. In fact, we often spend time listening to its assumptions, its lies, and its criticisms even when they’re not true.

This is how we develop body shame.

Body shaming can be defined as the action or practice of humiliating someone by making mocking or critical comments about their body shape or size. Even if that person is you.

In my profession I hear it all the time. Countless women using  words like fat, chunky or flabby to describe themselves.

Self acceptance takes practice. It’s the kind of thing where small steps lead to big change. The biggest key to gaining self acceptance is through practicing gratitude. Gratitude for the body you’ve been given and for the choices you’ve made in order to keep it healthy.

Only when you give thanks for what you have, will you be able to evolve your body into what you want it to be.  

Remember…whatever mind-set you feed–be it positive or negative–will grow.

Want some amazing inspiration? Check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5-CSQcYeXk