Aligned Therapy LLC

While I wish we lived in a world without diets and unrealistic body expectations, we just don’t. As a result, those pressures can build up and become overwhelming, causing us focus on what we think is wrong with ourselves instead of focusing on the bigger picture. Here’s how to give yourself grace on days when existing is hard:
1. Give yourself permission to go slow and accept that you won’t finish your to do list. This could look like giving yourself extra time to get ready in the morning or resting on the couch at home instead of doing a chore.
2. Wear clothing that supports your body instead of focusing on how you want to be perceived. This could look like wearing a cute, flowy dress or joggers with an oversized tee.
3. Orient to comfort. This could look like cooking your favorite meal, lighting your favorite candle, or asking for a couple of extra hugs from your partner.
4. Make sure to connect with nature or a loved one. This means that you might call your mom to chat, ask a friend to lunch, take your dogs for a walk, or eat a meal outside.
5. Breathe ALOT and then breathe some more. A relaxed nervous system is a happy nervous system!
6. Remember that you don’t have to have everything figured out all the time, that you are allowed to disappoint people, and it’s okay if you don’t have the answer.

You got this!

Winter is hard. Movement is challenging. Motivation comes and goes, but our intuition tells us what we need when we learn how to listen. Movement doesn’t have to function as a way to change your body shape; it’s for connection, energy, and to practice mindfulness. Our bodies are amazing, capable vessels that are capable of more than we know! Is there a way you were able to move intuitively today?

This time of year is full of pressure to make change. Whether it’s starting a new diet, buying a new gym membership, or “finally being able to fit into those jeans”, I’m here to tell you that you don’t need to change a single thing. You are enough just the way you are.