Body image. Probably for most people -- both women and men -- those two words bring up all sorts of negative feelings and emotions, feelings of not-good-enough, feelings of embarrassment, possibly guilt and shame.

Where did those feelings, that negativity, come from? Likely from Photoshopped images of “perfect” figures and complexions that don’t actually exist in the real world. Where there is advertising, there will also be Photoshop. We need to recognize that fact and factor it into our perception of the images we see, because perfection simply doesn’t exist in our world.

When we think  of our “body image” our thoughts typically go to our most “problematic” parts -- the lumpy thighs, bulging belly, and saggings arms -- instead of our assets -- the sparkling eyes, hearty laugh, good circulation, adequate mobility, the ability to breathe effortlessly on our own…

It’s not wrong to want better than what we currently have. Bu we’re never going to get our bodies to cooperate with us in the change process if we’re body shaming it.

Change begins with appreciation. Appreciating where you are now, how your body is right now is the first step.

The second step is being truly kind to your vessel, which is your body. You’ll want to care for and nurture it. You’ll want to treat it well and care for it with nutritious food, pure water, exercise and adequate movement, and sound rest.

You can’t body-shame and body-hate your way to an “ideal” figure. Appreciation and kindness are the keys to transforming your body.

Positive transformation begins with self-love and self-acceptable. Start by looking in the mirror and thanking your body for all the things it does for you. Focus on the things you like about your vessel. Then speak to what you want in positive, toward language. Finally, take action in the direction of the change you want to see.

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