Is Loving Your Body the Key to Unlocking Sustainable Weight Loss?

kerribrown901
Jul 2
6 min read

In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to escape the influence of magazine covers and social media posts promoting unrealistic body standards. When talking about weight loss, the conversation often centres on calorie counting, fad diets, and intense workout routines (which I don't coach by the way). However, there's an essential aspect that often gets overlooked: the relationship you have with your body. Could embracing body love be the critical factor for achieving lasting weight loss (aka true fat loss without yo/yo dieting)? In this post, I will delve into how body positivity can profoundly affect health, self-image, and personal weight management.

The Traditional Weight Loss Narrative

For decades, the weight loss conversation has revolved around numbers—specifically, the number you see on the scale. Many diets and exercise plans suggest that weight loss is merely a formula of burning more calories than you consume. This common belief often sets people on a discouraging rollercoaster of rapid weight loss followed by swift regain, frequently accompanied by feelings of guilt and failure.

Research shows that people who focus solely on weight loss may regain 80-95% of lost weight within one year. The need for external validation from the scale creates unrealistic expectations and fosters a negative self-image. As people get trapped in a cycle of self-judgment, they can unknowingly sabotage their own goals. I personally coach people around fat loss and muscle gain vs the number you see on the scale (total weight). We might work on lifting heavy to get you stronger while properly fuelling your body so you feel WAY better. But the scale might still read a similar number because you have swapped out fat for muscle. This can be a new concept to many women since we have been brainwashed into believing a lower scale number is always the goal.

Understanding Body Positivity

Body positivity promotes the acceptance of all body types, asserting that self-worth is not tied to physical appearance. Loving your body means valuing it for its abilities rather than just its looks. This mindset helps cultivate self-compassion and respect for your health, often laying the groundwork for healthy lifestyle choices.

When individuals begin to view their bodies with appreciation, they may become genuinely motivated to pursue healthier habits. For instance, instead of exercising as a form of punishment, it transforms into an act of celebration, celebrating what the body can achieve. This shift is vital for promoting a sustainable weight loss journey focused on overall well-being. This is why mindset might be the thing that is holding you back from great results!

The Psychological Benefits of Loving Your Body

Countless studies reinforce that people who practice body positivity experience less anxiety and depression. According to a study in the journal Body Image, individuals with a positive body image are 50% less likely to experience depressive symptoms. When people learn to accept themselves, they are more inclined to make holistic health choices.

For example, they may opt for nutrient-rich foods, not merely because they "should," but because they genuinely enjoy feeling good. When exercise is embraced as a celebration of movement, individuals often find it easier to stay active, contributing to sustainable weight loss. Both of those habits would build upon each other to create a virtuous cycle!

Breaking Free from Diet Culture

Diet culture reinforces the notion that thinness equates to worthiness, leading many to develop unhealthy relationships with food. In fact, research shows that 70% of women report dieting at some point in their lives (which might even be on the low side). This mindset can create restrictive eating habits that feel like shackles rather than options.

Loving your body opens the door to escaping these diet constraints. By acknowledging that all bodies deserve love and care, you may start listening to your body’s hunger cues, treating yourself to your favourite foods, and enjoying cooking. For instance, instead of focusing on low-calorie options, you will find that you prefer meals that nourish and satisfy you.

This shift away from rigid diet rules can lead to a more balanced lifestyle. Such freedom is not only enjoyable—it can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, factors that often obstruct weight loss efforts. If you want to learn more about this style of eating you can book a free call here.

Mindful Eating: Transforming Your Relationship with Food

Mindful eating pairs well with body positivity. It’s all about being present during meals—acknowledging when you're hungry, savouring flavours, and appreciating nourishment. Studies show that individuals who practice mindful eating tend to consume fewer calories while enjoying their food more.

When you love your body, engaging in mindful eating becomes second nature. Rather than forcing down a salad out of obligation, you might find yourself choosing a homemade beef stir-fry loaded with colourful vegetables that truly satisfies you. This way of eating turns food into an experience, steering you toward healthier choices without feeling deprived.

The Role of Community and Support

Loving your body flourishes in a supportive community. Whether it's friends, family, or online groups, surrounding yourself with positive influences can enhance body positivity. Sharing experiences with others allows for accountability and inspiration.

For instance, when a group of friends collectively decides to try out new healthy recipes, they not only support each other but also celebrate milestones together. A supportive environment reminds you that everyone's journey is unique and that health is a personal experience, deflating feelings of isolation that often accompany weight loss. Anyone who works with me is allowed to join my private facebook page where there is unlimited support and positivity from other women in the same boat.

Setting Realistic Goals through Self-Love

In the end, sustainable weight loss centres around setting realistic goals rooted in self-love. Rather than yearning for an idealized shape, prioritize your overall health.

This may include objectives like walking for 15 minutes after each meal, cooking a new healthy dish once a week, or trying out different types of exercise. When these goals stem from a desire to love your body, you gain a greater appreciation for the journey. Setbacks become just that—temporary—and not a reflection of your worth.

A Healthier Approach to Weight Loss

Embracing and loving your body may just be the missing piece in achieving sustainable weight loss. By nurturing a positive relationship with yourself, you can shift the focus from restrictive diets to an overall commitment to well-being, which is how I coach my clients!

This approach not only improves mental health but also encourages healthier eating habits and regular physical activity. It fosters a positive community, creating an atmosphere of support instead of criticism.

The path to weight loss should be about feeling great in your own skin rather than fixating solely on the numbers on a scale. By loving your body, you can unlock a powerful tool in your health journey, leading to a happier, healthier you. Try these exercises to help work on loving your body: Journal Prompts: Write down 3 things you love about your body. How has your body been there for you in the past? How does it currently feel to be in your body? What relationship do you want to have with your body?

Mirror Talk: Stand in front of the mirror and tell yourself "I Love You". "Your skin looks great today." "I love how strong and powerful I am" etc. You can find sentences that suit you, but talk to yourself in a positive tone and give compliments. This will become easier over time, it's the same as building any skill, you need to practice it!

Say Thank You: When going through your day. don't forget to say thanks to your body. "Thank you for waking up this morning", "Thanks for being strong when lifting the kids." "Thanks for getting me upstairs and moving". You can thank your body for all that it does, no matter how small it may seem.

Correct Negative Self-Talk: Did you know the average person speaks negatively to themselves all day. but gives positive comments to everyone else! If you catch yourself being negative or mean to yourself. Stop, reframe the sentence and create a positive statement. Example: "Wow, I am dumb". Reframe: "What a silly mistake, I can learn from this and move forward".