Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people who exercise for functional reasons (energy, mood, strength) exercise more consistently and report higher body satisfaction than those who exercise for appearance reasons.
Learning to speak to yourself like a friend.
True wellness isn't a size. It is a feeling. It is having the energy to do the things you love, the mental clarity to handle life’s challenges, and the self-compassion to treat your body like a friend, rather than an enemy.
Emily also made a conscious effort to surround herself with positive influences. She unfollowed social media accounts that made her feel bad about herself and followed accounts that promoted body positivity, self-love, and wellness. She read books and articles that celebrated diversity and inclusivity, and she engaged in conversations with others about the importance of self-acceptance.