Dear Younger Women Everywhere,
Have you ever looked back at old photos of yourself and thought, “Wow, I looked so good!”? If so, you’re not alone (both my hands are up). Many older women have shared that they wish they had appreciated their bodies more when they were younger. They realise now how beautiful they are and always were, but at the time, they were so critical of themselves.
It’s easy to get caught up in the societal pressure to look a certain way. We’re bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies in magazines, on social media, and in movies. We’re told that we should be thinner, taller, have longer hair… the list goes on. But the truth is, there’s no one “perfect” body type. We’re all unique, and that’s what makes us beautiful.
The problem with being overly critical of our bodies is that it can lead to negative self-talk, low self-esteem, and even body dysmorphia.
When we’re constantly comparing ourselves to others, we forget to appreciate what we have. We forget that our bodies are capable of amazing things, and that they deserve to be loved and cared for.
So, to all the young women out there, take a moment to appreciate your body. Look in the mirror and focus on the things you love about yourself.
Maybe it’s your smile, your strong legs, or your curves. Whatever it is, embrace it. Your body is amazing, and it deserves to be celebrated.
And to all the older women out there, thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. Your message is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to appreciate our bodies. We can learn from your experiences and make a conscious effort to love ourselves more.
Remember, your body is a vessel that carries you through life. Treat it with respect, kindness, and love. You’ll be amazed at what it’s capable of when you do.
With love and appreciation,
Hayley xoxo