Your Body

My Body is My Body

by Emily

When I look at my girlfriends, I see all kinds of people. They tell hilarious jokes, are learning to become doctors and writers, and are generous with their time and energy. They're a pretty unique bunch—graceful and uncoordinated; petite and sky-high; strong, slender, compact, and everything in between. They run marathons and teach yoga. And like me, they've been confused at times about their self-image and how to eat healthy to fuel their minds and bodies. It’s lucky that we have each other. We hear different perspectives, kind voices, and genuine support. I’ve learned so much from them, especially what I think about food and fitness, celebrating my body, and being willing to take risks.

A few things I've learned from these ladies are: Eating is about more than grains, sugars, and proteins. What you take in affects how you feel emotionally, how quickly you can bounce back from injuries, and how healthy your hair, nails, and skin are. They’ve also pointed out that there are gorgeous things about a woman even on her worst days.

And then there are things that have taken me a longer time to learn. For instance, I spent too much time avoiding healthy foods. The bad habits I created caused me a lot of stress and pulled me away from the girlfriends who recognized the strong and beautiful things about me I was too scared to see. But through my ups and downs I’m a better person today, and here’s what I can share with you:

Emily, in the yellow scarf, and her own circle of friends, chillin'

• Avoid the haters. A lot of people are quick to point out parts of people's bodies that aren't perfect. We all have little eccentricities that make us who we are, whether they be thick thighs, a crooked smile, or flat feet. When you hear someone point out what's not ideal about your body or someone else's, let it go in one ear and out the other. Or better, decide that that’s what makes you unique! I mean, my body is my body—right? Plus, you can be positive with your circle of friends. Encouraging other people to appreciate what's beautiful in them helps your outlook, too.

• Cooking can be fun. When I was a teenager I hated to cook. I ate cereal three meals a day and practically burned spaghetti instead of simply cooking it. But college forced me to start making choices. I could either consume what was quick, easy, and unhealthy all the time, or I could learn a few easy recipes and start cooking. So I began to eat vegetables and other produce. I felt good and then I began to lift weights and run. Going with the second plan gave me more energy and an excuse to have friends over to cook together. Now it's more common for me to make fish and a salad with fruit and nuts than the nachos I used to crave. I've learned that I can still enjoy a guacamole and cheese combo once in a while, but putting more thought into my meals helps me feel less tired and more confident about what I’m creating.

• Diets aren't worth your time. It's hard to pick up a magazine or be in a women's restroom without hearing about new diets and ideas for losing a quick ten pounds. But they don't work for me or, frankly, anyone else I know. Following a set of guidelines to avoid the foods I love leaves me feeling trapped, exhausted, and cranky. Instead, I set a goal to prepare healthy foods I like. I eat when I’m hungry and stop when I’m full. It’s a much easier approach. The time I’d spend counting points and agonizing about whether every bite fits into a diet plan could be better spent walking a dog, talking to a friend, or having a random dance party. There's nothing healthier than a little impromptu dancing to Joss Stone or Kelly Clarkson…

Corn... YUMMY!

• Ask questions about what you don't know. Eating is not typically an intellectual matter, it’s emotional. Many times girls are less likely to talk about eating because they’re embarrassed, like they should already know what to do. Or they feel “empty” inside and they need to fill that hole—so they eat. The truth is we all need help. And when you seek out information, go outside your own head, someone else will have the answers. I know I always feel healthiest when I eat well and exercise. And when I’m unsure about certain foods or I have concerns, I turn to experts. When I need advice about preventing injuries or I have other questions about staying well, I just go and ask. Talk to a nutritionist. Talk to a teacher. Or talk to an adult you trust who can help you figure out what you can eat to make you feel better and healthier. There is also a wide range of websites that offer helpful thoughts on nutrition and living healthy, too.

So here’s to your body, and mine!

Links:
http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/
http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/healthyeating.html