‘if you don’t like something, then do something about it’

My 4 year old daughter and I were playing together and she wanted me to take a video of her dancing. Then she wanted to record me. (Sigh) I watched the video back and instantly cricticized myself. I was not happy with my body image! (Please note that I criticized in my head as I never want her to hear me say anything negative about myself).

As women (and men), we can naturally be very critical of ourselves. We see something in the mirror that we do not like and hone in on it rather than see the whole picture. Most of the time, the things we see, others do not even notice. To us those flaws are a shining beacon! And most of the time there is absolutely nothing wrong with us.

After I saw the video I remembered a piece of advice I once received. I was told ‘if you don’t like something, then do something about it’. That advice has stuck with me for many years.

But the big question is should we look at it as a problem and try and fix it or do we accept ourselves for who we are?

I think to answer this question it is important to establish the depth of the problem I had with myself. Yes I saw something that I did not like but is it really that big of a deal and something that others would notice? Am I seeing it a lot worse for what it is? Maybe I should not be worrying about something so trivial when there are so many more important problems in the world?

But to me at that time it did feel huge. I deleted the video and felt a bit down! So I think yes the issue was big enough to try and do something about it. And let’s face it. If I am not happy with body image then the solutions can only improve my health in the long run - eating healthier and exercising more.

So I think in my case fixing the problem is a positive solution. I can also try to change my mindset so that I am more accepting of myself. A few body positive affirmations can only lead to a win win situation.

So that night I did follow the advice. I got back on the bike and I worked out. I can not tell you how good I felt afterwards. Not only did I feel like I was taking a step in the right direction but my endorphins were boosted and I felt great! Of course one work out isn’t going to change everything overnight but one small effort can be that little encouragement you need.

And if I incorporate this advice in other areas of my life then I am taking back an element of control. For example, if my skin is looking a little tired and dull, I can do a facial massage routine to brighten my complexion. If I am feeling a little overwhelmed, I can maybe get out the house and go for a walk. If I am feeling a little lonely then I can call a friend. If I see a new line or wrinkle then I will do a little face yoga!!! If I am feeling sluggish I can eat healthier. You get the picture,

Sometimes the issue is a lot bigger that what I have mentioned and of course this blog is not a substitute for medical advice but sometimes I think we just need to remind ourselves that we are the only ones that have the power to make the initial changes in ourselves. A family member can try to encourage you to eat healthier but only you can be the one to physically do it.

What about the other argument of accepting who we are for what we are? Being body positive is a big thing in the media right now. We are all unique and that is what makes the world a wonderful place and that is what makes us beautiful. Our bodies and our faces do change as we get older and this is sometimes difficult to see. There are some things that we simply do not have control over and this is what we have to come to terms with. And that it is not a negative thing. We have to remember that growing older is a privilege and that every line, wrinkle or those few extra pounds are the story of our lives.

So in conclusion, I think we do need to do a combination of them both. If the change is going to benefit us, then yes, go ahead and make that change. But not if it is going to cause additional stress and pressure in your life. Don’t suddenly think you have to spend hours and hours fixing the issue as then it becomes overwhelming and you set yourself up for failure. Baby steps get big results. And then combine these actions with some positive thinking and a little acceptance of who we are.

I challenge your to make that change today! And be proud of yourself for it. Let me know your thoughts on this topic or what you have challenged yourself to do to make that change! Send me a message on rebeccafaceyoga@yahoo.com or via my website. I would love to hear from you!

To find out more about what Face Yoga can do for you please contact me to chat about your skincare needs and how I can help you achieve your goals.

Love Rebecca x