my body my friend

I am continually inspired by women’s abilities to practice random and consistent love toward the bodies of others, be it their gal pals, children, or total strangers. So often when it comes down to body (self) love, judgment gets in the way and blocks our ability to shower or even sprinkle love and acceptance on our bodies.

I remember very clearly when I became pregnant I experienced my body as if she was my child. My body became a sacred space not completely familiar though natural and special. I discovered myself in a very different relationship with my body as I began a relationship with the child I was carrying. I practiced a gentle loving kindness toward her (my body) like none I had ever experienced. I noticed it in the way I practiced self care in so many of my daily life choices; rest, touch, play, food, pleasure of many sorts, and especially compassion. In a way, my body was my child and my child was my body. This experience gave me a touchstone to return to over and over as I strengthened my ability to love and accept my body even after my pregnancies.

Let’s explore an experience to foster a sacred loving relationship between you, the reader, and your body; an experiential touchstone of your own.

Let’s do an experiment of moving beyond judgment to loving your body…as if she is your friend, a child or someone in need of comfort. You want her to feel loved, accepted, cared for and special. Judgment, skepticism, negative or painful feelings, beliefs or memories may emerge. No worries. Just notice. Now bring your attention to the ways in which you have demonstrated love and care toward another in your life and resume the exercise. For today’s practice your body is another. If you do not understand what she is saying, simply give her a hug, a smile, or compassionate words of encouragement. Repeat this experiment until a habit emerges. This can be the beginning of a communication that will get richer, deeper, more trusting and yes, more loving over time.

So today let us thank the National Organization for Women for designating October 19^th LOVE YOUR BODY DAY and begin practicing your body love muscle now! Visit NOW’s Love Your Body Day Blog Carnival for more at www.now.org/news/blogs/index.php/sayit/2011/10/19/lybd-blog-carnival-posts