Random Acts of Mindful Self-Kindness

I want to take a moment to remind you of the importance of mindful eating and being kind to yourself. I ask myself, and encourage my clients to ask themselves, this question every day: Am I being kind to myself today?

No matter how many times I ask myself that question, it always makes me pause for a moment because it's never a simple yes or no answer.

Ways you can be kind to your body

Treat yourself with compassion, and practice positive self-talk by focusing on your strengths and achievements rather than your shortcomings.

• Prioritize sleep.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Speak nicely to yourself.
• Nourish your body with foods that provide the nutrients it needs to function properly and give you energy.
• Make time for mindful movement that you enjoy, such as walking, jogging, dancing, or swimming.
• Take breaks throughout the day to stretch, move your body, and get some fresh air.
• Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Surround yourself with positive people who support and encourage you.
• Set realistic and achievable goals, and celebrate your accomplishments along the way.
• Listen to your body's signals of hunger and fullness, and eat mindfully by savoring each bite and paying attention to your body's needs.

Ways you can be unkind to your body

• Pushing yourself when exhausted.
• Dressing in uncomfortable clothing.
• Ignoring pain and not seeking medical attention when needed.
• Not allowing yourself to rest.
• Comparing your body to other people's.
• Putting your body in stressful or potentially harmful situations.
• Ignoring hunger and fullness cues.
• Talking negatively about yourself or your body.

There are some quick and proven ways to improve your body image. For example, according to a new study published in the journal Psychology of Popular Media, teens who reduced their time on social media by 50% had a significant improvement in their body image and feelings about their appearance in just a few weeks.

It's not always easy to be kind to yourself. A lot of "shoulds" can stand in the way. It's easy to get caught up in the busy and stressful nature of our lives, and as a result, we often neglect to take care of ourselves. Today, I encourage you to take a moment to pause and check in with yourself. Take a deep breath and ask yourself: What do I need right now? Whether it's a healthy meal, a few minutes of quiet time, or a quick walk outside, give yourself permission to prioritize your needs.

As you eat today, try to be present, and mindful of each bite. Take your time and savor the flavors and textures of your food. Focus on the experience of eating and pay attention to your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Remember, every small step counts towards a healthier, happier, and more mindful you.

Source: Dr. Susan Albers