This is the path less-traveled by, but the journey is so worth it!

This is the biggest struggle I see in a vast amount of people. “Why doesn’t my body work how I want it to?” I used to say these same things, and I still do on occasion. This is a very personal post for me and it took weeks to write, but I wanted to make sure I could love my body before I shared what I’ve been learning. Throughout the past year, I’ve dealt with extreme pain in my abdomen. Numerous doctors did not one have an answer for my problems. I blamed myself for the things my body couldn’t do rather than the things it could do. I became angry that I didn’t listen to my body sooner, and I felt like this is something I will have to live with forever. These things are terrible to think, and I know I’m not the only one thinking them about myself. Over the past few months, I’ve had some highs and lows, but more importantly, I’m learning to love an imperfect body. This topic became near and dear to my heart since it is my constant struggle, and I’m sure I’m not alone. Here’s some tips that I’ve been using:

#1: Stop comparing!

One of the five love languages is called words of affirmation. Tell yourself you’re beautiful, you’re smart, you’re strong, you’re amazing! It’s hard to look at others when you may think they have a perfect life without a care in the world. This couldn’t be further away from the truth. Everyone goes through struggles, but they might be different than the one you’re going through.

#2: Focus on what your body can do rather than what it can’t do.

This is HUGE! Also, it’s really hard to do. I constantly blamed my imperfect body for things I couldn’t do. Eating is a constant battle because I can’t tell if I’m hungry or just in pain. It’s the strangest thing. However, I am happy my body can digest, that I can breathe on my own, that I can walk without assistance and speak with meaning. There’s so many out there less fortunate than I and it’s so much easier to serve than to wallow in self-pity.

#3: If all else fails, set goals.

This is easier said than done. I’ve gone through this part many times in the past and even now. Before Taz and I were married, I was put on some medication that made me gain 30 pounds in one month! I became distraught when I saw pictures of what I looked like before and I felt like it was completely unachievable. Now, I know the number on the scale doesn’t matter, but that doesn’t stop me for setting goals for myself to be healthy both mentally and physically. You can plan a few nights a week to work out, serve someone else, write down three things you’re thankful for each day or take 10 minutes to meditate. This helps boost not only your physical self, but your mental stability. All of these things and many more push me towards my goals. This doesn’t “cure” me and I may not know what is going on with my imperfect body, but there are things I can do to make it more bearable.

I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who have reached out to me during this journey. Your constant prayers and love have helped so much! Thank you for all your support. Love you all! 

XOXO Kayla