Learn to Love Your Body after WLS

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and really appreciated yourself for what you saw? For many people who struggle with obesity, this may be an unfamiliar experience.

Many people find the concept of loving their bodies difficult. After undergoing bariatric surgery you may find it difficult to embrace your body and see positive attributes within yourself. As you lose weight, it is crucial that you work to repair any emotional grudges you have against yourself. This means complimenting yourself when you look in the mirror, thinking positively about the way you look and taking the time to find clothing that fits you just right. As you do all of this, you need to keep in mind that you are doing this for yourself, and for your overall happiness.

You Look Good, and You Deserve It

After years of struggling with obesity it is difficult to look at yourself with a positive mindset. You are not alone; plenty of people are struggling with the same situation. Older, baggy clothes become commonplace and perhaps you don’t want to go through the stress of finding out if your jeans from last winter fit. Shopping for new clothes can also seem stressful and embarrassing. Now that you are losing weight you need to shift your mindset and begin to appreciate your body for what it is. You’re working hard every day to make long-term lifestyle changes and you deserve to feel good about that.

When you battle with excess weight, it’s tough to make an honest effort to love and appreciate your body for what it is. Bariatric surgery will help you achieve the results you desire, but it’s up to you to find the love in your heart for your body—for better or worse.

Learn to appreciate, accept and love your body today with these tips:

Become aware. Sometimes a negative thought or comment may emerge subconsciously. Identify when these thoughts arise. This is the first step to changing the way you view yourself. Notice when you are not treating yourself kindly and take a moment to consider what is triggering these thoughts.
Challenge negative thoughts. When you think about why you are saying or thinking negative things, don’t just accept the reasoning. Challenge it. Find value in yourself and your accomplishments since bariatric surgery. Try writing positive affirmations on your mirror or in your journal. Repeat these affirmations daily. An example of a positive daily affirmation may be something like, “I am strong and beautiful,” or “I love my body.” Simple repetitions like that can make a world of difference next you look in the mirror.
Don’t avoid reflections. By avoiding looking into a mirror, or viewing your reflection, you are promoting and provoking negative self-image. Your bariatric surgery took an amazing amount of courage and determination. Don’t be scared of a mirror, face it head on.
Meditate. Meditation clears the mind and negative energies that may be lingering after your bariatric surgery. Take a few minutes out of each day to clear your head of negative thoughts. Meditation can help you slow down and focus on a more positive self-loving energy. You can reflect on your daily affirmations and strengthen your ability to promote a kind, positive body image.

Constantly bombarding yourself with negative statements about your appearance is only going to impede your weight loss progress. Spend less time critiquing aspects of your body that you still want to work on and more time complimenting yourself for how far you’ve come.