Body Image - Be Happy With Health, Not Perfection

When you look in the mirror, what do you see? A little extra padding in the rear? Thighs that remind you of certain electrical weather conditions? Upper arms that continue to wave long after your hand is done waving? Most of us (me included) have a bad habit of making a laundry list of our imperfections. And we're often more harsh than need be.

It's important to get to a healthy weight; being overweight has many ramifications on your health. And there's nothing wrong with trying to tone and strengthen your body. But don't let a quest for health turn into an unreachable goal of perfection. Instead, accept yourself for who you are and learn to love your strong, healthy body. Some feel-good tips:

• Exercise. Being active energizes you and makes you feel great.
• Choose energy-boosting, nutritious foods.
• Compliment someone else. Being kind to others is good for the spirit.
• Steer conversations to other topics. Do your friends tend to get into my-butt-is-too-big conversations? Change the subject and talk about something more positive.
• Break the habit. Every time an unbidden negative thought about your body comes to mind, follow it with two positive thoughts.
• Catch your zzz's. A good night's sleep can help you maintain a good -- and positive -- mood.