Boost Your Body Image

How would you like to unlock the secret to better body image? Whether your goal is to slip into your dream dress or simply love and appreciate the body you have right now, there are lots of simple ways you can move towards a happier, more positive you. But because no journey to achieving true body image confidence can ever be plain sailing, here’s how to stay on course and navigate your way to a brighter future and a calmer, healthier lifestyle.

TRY… Letting Go of Perfect

Whenever you start something new, something that takes you out of your comfort zone a little, chances are you’ll want to do it perfectly. You may throw yourself into it wholeheartedly and want to get everything right first time. While there will be many, many times when things go right, there’ll also be times when you trip up, mistakes happen or you veer off-path. Try to remember, just because one thing has gone wrong, (“I had a blow-out and ate the entire packet of biscuits”) it doesn’t mean that everything has gone wrong (“My whole diet has failed, I might as well give up”). The trick is to forgive yourself and learn a lesson from it. It’s also a good idea to try to put a strategy in place so that you don’t slip up next time. Then draw a line under it and move on with your lifee and your goal of an improved body image.

TRY… Celebrating Every Success

Whatever your goal, it’s good to set specific targets and measure your progress as you work towards them. Break down each challenge into realistic bite-size chunks, plot them as you go and celebrate every step of the way. If you’re not quite ready to slip into that summer dress just yet you might be ready to invest in some gorgeous new underwear to support your changing shape, or a new hairstyle to show off your slimmer face. Little treats along the way will keep the momentum going all the way to your ultimate body image goal.

TRY… a Daily Positive Body Image Affirmation

If you’re prone to listening to your inner critic – that harsh disapproving voice inside that saps your self-confidence and potential – learning to nip those negative thoughts in the bud by replacing them with positive affirmations is an empowering skill to have. Using an affirmation can be a reminder that there is a much kinder, more forgiving and encouraging way to treat yourself. Start by working out exactly what you want to focus on and build an affirmation around it. For example, “I’m ready to be fit, healthy and happy.” Say it out loud in front of a mirror or write it down as soon as you feel unproductive thoughts coming on. Repeat on a regular basis and remember, if you wouldn’t say something to a friend, don’t say it to you!

TRY… Staying in Your Own Lane

If you’re trying to drop pounds, there’s no doubt that friendship and camaraderie are great for support, and of course, it’s good to look to others we admire for motivation. It’s when we start directly comparing ourselves unfavourably to others that our self-esteem can suffer and set us back from reaching our personal goals. Instead, simply focus on being the best version of you. Stay in your own lane and enjoy your own unique body image journey.

TRY… an Aromatherapy Blend for Happiness

For an aromatherapy blend that’s bursting with freshness, cheerfulness and positivity, this trio of fruity oils will give you a new zest for life! Grapefruit, orange and bergamot blend well together to help clear your thoughts, lift any feelings of apathy and will lend you the confidence to work towards reaching your new goals. Add two drops of each to a diffuser and scent the room whenever you’re feeling in need of an extra shot of body image confidence, or add 6-8 drops to a bath. For the bath, dilute first in a small amount of a carrier oil and swirl into hand-hot water.

TRY… Daily Gratitude

However you feel about your body image right now, there will hopefully be at least some elements of it that you do feel comfortable with. Even thinking about the areas you might not be as happy with, there are lots of reasons why they might be a blessing. Your stomach may not be as flat and toned as you’d like but has it given you the gift of a child? Have your thighs that you think are wobbly taken you across the finish line of a charity walk or race, or to see some of the most amazing sights in the world? Next time you feel lacking in confidence, try looking at things from a different perspective and practice learning to love and appreciate all the remarkable things your body does for you every single day.

Thinking happy, empowering thoughts will allow you to embrace life and help you build a better, more confident, you. If you’d like to develop a more positive relationship with your body, our Body Love Diploma Course will help you to get to where you want to be, with lots of helpful advice, motivation and expert tips every step of the way.

Safety and Precautions

Some aromatherapy essential oils are contraindicated for use during pregnancy and for those with certain health conditions, so always check with a qualified practitioner before using them if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Always consult with your GP if you are concerned about any health condition or are considering starting a new exercise regime.