In life, we can often be our own worst critic, and the quest for perfection becomes a futile cycle that brings us nowhere closer to our goals to attain it. Nutrition Expert Amrie DeFrates shares her insight on how to better cultivate a positive image of ourselves that can propel us forward.
On a daily basis, you are flooded with information about what foods you should and shouldn’t be eating to achieve the body you should have. The message that you have to be rigid in your food choices in order to achieve this “ideal” outward appearance harms your relationship with food and your body.
It causes you to become disconnected from your intrinsic wisdom -your body knows what you need better than any diet does.
A few practices that are helpful when nurturing your relationship with food and body are curiosity, acceptance, and connection.
First, ask yourself if you are curious about the possibility of feeling more positive and confident in your own skin. If you aren’t in a space where you are open to the idea of change, it’s not the right time, and that’s okay. Once you feel ready to wonder about the thought of something new and different, you can start experimenting with making change.
Next, work toward accepting yourself for where you are with your relationship to food and self. This means letting go of judgments, negative or positive, about your food choices and appearance. Acceptance may fluctuate from day-to-day, remember that is normal and will take time.
ACCEPTANCE IS LIFE-CHANGING; YOU WON’T REGRET IT.
Curiosity and acceptance provide a solid foundation for connection.With the help of a registered dietitian specialized in intuitive eating, you will begin reconnecting with your internal cues that tell you exactly what you need as far as food, movement, and self-care. When your internal cues are connected with your outward actions, you become the most authentic version of yourself, and that will feel so rewarding.
No two experiences to achieve this healthy relationship with food and self will look the same. There may be struggles along the way; it’s all a part of the process. You’re beautiful for who you are, exactly where you’re at in this very moment.
Amrie DeFrates, RD is a San Diego-based private practice registered dietitian committed to providing an environment where she helps others explore their relationship with food and their body without judgment or criticism. Her specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting, body image, mindful eating, and intuitive eating. Amrie believes in nourishing those you love — including yourself! Visit her at DeFrates Nutrition today.