Body Love & Acceptance - A Guided Journaling Exercise

artwork by jozetterodriguez

This is a beautiful but sometimes emotional exercise ~ it might bring you to tears, and that's okay. Crying can be deeply healing.

Take a few minutes alone in front of your largest mirror. If you feel comfortable, be naked or partially undressed. Stand there, fully present, and look at yourself with love. Let kindness fill your heart and avoid the usual criticism or judgment.

At first, you may feel uncomfortable, shy, or emotional ~ that’s completely normal. Try to focus on what you can praise. Maybe it’s gratitude for how your body functions ("thank you, legs, for carrying me, heart that beats, brain for making memories…") ~ or how something looks ("I love my eyes" or "my feet are cute"). Speak to and about yourself as you would a dear friend.

When you're ready, sit down and write about the experience.

What do you love, like, or care about?

How did it feel to offer your body kind words?

This exercise helps release old, limiting stories and dull standards of beauty.

Revisit this from time to time and notice how your thoughts shift. This gentle practice can create profound healing.