With Valentine’s Day a week away, most of us are thinking of ways we can show our significant other how much we love him or her. However, I suggest we all take the time to also show ourselves a little love. While I have been known to be a bit of a cynic when it comes to finding romance with “the one”, I am certainly no skeptic when it comes to being true to the only person you’ll be with forever – yourself. And honestly, how can you expect someone else to love you if you don’t love yourself. Plus, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be around for all those future Valentine’s Days to show and receive love from another.
 |
| Enjoying a dance at my friend's wedding |
In this nipped, tucked, and Botoxed world of reality television and air-brushed advertisements, many people get a warped sense of beauty and what they think they should look like. However, this Valentine’s Day, I encourage women and men of all ages to look in the mirror and embrace what you see. You shouldn’t starve yourself to fit into some skimpy dress or skinny jeans. And no one should want to erase the minor flaws that come from living a full life. Look in the mirror and truly love what you see. The wrinkles and crow’s feet around your eyes echo the laughter you have shared over the years. The wrinkles around your lips are mementos of the kisses you have given to show affection. The stretch marks are a token of the way your body beautifully adapted to bear your child. And those few extra pounds you’ve added over the decades are evidence of the many birthday cakes, holiday meals, and boxes of chocolates you have shared with the ones you love. The freckles and dark spots on your skin are a reflection of the hours of fun you spent playing in the sun.
 |
| Having fun in the sun with Dad |
Why would anyone want to take away all those beautiful memories? Chances are, your significant other loves your true beauty and recognizes that they are memories and not flaws. And remember to tell your significant other this Valentine’s Day how beautiful they are and how much you love them. And whether you have a significant other or not, remember that YOU are the love of your life – your own life. Look in the mirror and love yourself. Know that you need to take care of your body and stay healthy – no one else can do that for you.
So this year celebrate Valentine’s Day and enjoy that box of chocolates – just maybe stick to the small box and make it dark chocolate this year! While I am no matchmaker, I can certainly help you find love in your life – it’s the love of YOUR life. From fitness to nutrition and everything in between, I am here for you. Go to http://www.coachdconsulting.com/Services.html to see all the ways I can help you and all your Valentines. Obesity is 100% preventable and it starts with the love of your life!
