Our Bodies

All of us exist in a physical body - there is just no way around it. It is quite magical really - the sensation of a warm breeze on your face, the juicy goodness of a good hip shake, growing and nurturing a life inside, your legs carrying you miles, a body buzzing with cells that happily churn and spin so that you can digest and breathe. We just can't get over how wonderful all of our bodies are.

What miraculous machines!

However, in a world in which bodies are perceived as something to be fixed, maintained and altered it is so very challenging to celebrate the goodness. In this context, it is easy to slip into a mindset that is void of gratitude for our body. There are plans to "fix" this precious structure thrown at us from every direction, everyday. "If I could just ___________ (Lose 10? 25? 50? pounds, tone that belly, sculpt that bum, tighten that waist) I would be __________ (Better/Worthier/Happier/More successful)." Guess what? We are just too darn exhausted to keep it up anymore. We think there is another way to go about our days that doesn't revolve around restricting foods, shaming ourselves for not exercising or pretending like the whole system isn't bothering us!

Turns out some other people think the same way.

Be Nourished

One of our favorite things about Portland is Be Nourished. These women are doing some revolutionary work in the realm of how we view, speak about and most importantly experience our bodies. Trainings and classes are offered (e-courses too) often!

Need a boost today? Check out their Manifesto.

Positive Media Corner

Increase your exposure to body inclusive paradigm shifting media!

In the US, 80% of girls have been on a diet by the time they're 10 years old. In this honest, raw talk, neuroscientist Sandra Aamodt uses her personal story to frame an important lesson about how our brains manage our bodies, as she explores the science behind why dieting not only doesn't work, but is likely to do more harm than good.

Viewing the photography of Jade Beall never ceases to bring great happiness to our hearts. You can even follow her on Instagram for a boost of embodied BEAUTY throughout your day!

Read This!

Body of Truth by Harriet Brown

Mindful Eating by Jan Chozen Bays

The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love by Sonya Renee Taylor

Watch This!

Embrace by Taryn Brumfitt