I love this quote from Cherie Carter-Scott about how we perceive our bodies, and put it into practice in a swimsuit in Hawaii:
“For many people, their body is the target of their harshest judgments and the barometer by which they measure their self-worth. They hold themselves up to an unattainable standard and berate themselves for coming up short of perfection.
Imposing harsh judgments on your body limits the range of experiences you allow yourself to enjoy. How many times has a potentially wonderful day at the beach been tainted by your judgments about how you look in a bathing suit? Imagine how liberating it would be to happily walk across the warm sand without feeling self-conscious. Think of all the activities in your life that you have deferred until you look different, better, or perhaps even perfect.” [Italics added].
When I went to school for a year in Hawaii, I remember going to the beach for a day with a bunch of guys and girls. It sounded fabulous, but inside I was petrified—these very good-looking guys would see me in all my big-thigh glory, with nowhere to hide but my towel.
For the first hour, hide I did, right there sitting on the blanket on the beach, watching everyone have fun. Finally, one of the guys said, Why aren’t you swimming with us. BECAUSE I FEEL LIKE A BELUGA WHALE, DUH (which I did not say aloud).
At that moment and his expression, I realized it was do or die—we were here to swim and they were going to see, at some point, during some part of the semester, the real me. May as well be now.
So I stood and smiled and walked with absolute confidence (ish) to the water. It was a key body-image changing moment, marked by the fact that I still remember it so clearly and follow the same pattern today. Whether it’s swimming my kids at the pool (and my old lady arms) or hanging with friends, I am who I am, and more gentle and appreciative of the body I’ve been blessed with.
This week I encourage you to be more gentle with your sweet body and see yourself for the beautiful, wonderful person you already are.
Best,
Connie
P.S. If you’re interested in becoming a Back to Basics Group Host (church or women’s group), email me@conniesokol.com. Based on the Faithful, Fit, & Fabulous book/program, you be the host and we give you FREE media resources!
