Almost everyone struggles with body image.

Youre being way more harsh that anyone else would be.

Her comment stopped me in my tracks because I realized its applicable to the entire body.

No one else sees your body the way you see it.

No one else is as cruel to or critical of your body as you are.

This can be a surprisingly freeing realization.

Forgive yourself

Body image can be a slippery slope for most people.

It goes without saying that this is a really unhelpful mindset.

If youve treated your body poorly in the past, that doesnt mean you oughta keep treating it poorly.

Forgive yourself for your unhealthy behaviors, and focus on making healthier, more positive choices moving forward.

When was the last time you did something truly kind for your body?

Here are some of the most important things you might do:

Exercise.

Be conscious about what youre eating, but also about how youre eating.

Take the time to prepare healthy and delicious meals for yourself (or get them made for you).

Slow down as you eat, and actually savor your food.

Drink plenty of water.

Take active steps to reduce stress.

You already know all of these things, but odds are that youre not actually doing them.

The power of these foundational tools just cant be underestimated.

They really can make a huge impact on your relationship with your body.

If youre like most people, its embarrassingly difficult to think of an answer.

But the better you treat your body, the better you will feel about it.

Here are some possibilities to consider:

Get a massage or go to a spa.

Go on a long walk in nature.

Treat yourself to fancy body lotions or oils.

Hire a personal trainer.

Buy clothes that fit well and make you feel good.

Compliment them, just to yourself.

(Not out loud.)

Check in with it throughout the day.

Talk to your body about the fact that youre trying to change your relationship with it.

They found that healthy, lasting relationships had a balance of five positive statements for every one negative one.

I use that same balance for body talk.

But that only reinforces the idea that theres something wrong with your body.

Instead, try touching your body on a daily basis.

Take a little extra time in the shower, or putting on lotion.

Learn some self-massage techniques.

Put your hands on your body as you talk to it.

Try spending a few moments each morning or evening thinking about what youre grateful for about your body.

For example, maybe you have really cute toes.

Or maybe youre thankful youve never had any mobility issues.

Its also about all of the things that your body does for you on a daily basis.

Its OK to be honest about the fact that your relationship with your body is a struggle.

Its OK to acknowledge your insecurities, your frustrations, your fears, and your bad days.

Instead of making perfection your goal, think instead about effort.