Today my Tibetan teacher talked about our bodies, and how we suffer when we don't respect them and hold them sacred. That got me thinking about words we use to describe our bodies: the relentless "I'm fat"s and "I'm a dog"s. We denigrate ourselves and not only alone but in front of others. We do the constant comparing: a veritable nest of vipers. And the culture comes to our aid to correct our defects: makeup, diets, antiaging creams, cosmetic surgery, wigs, camoflage clothes. We could be perfect if only we'd buy, buy buy.
I made a promise to myself long ago to not criticize myself, or even think about the face and body in the mirror too hard. I watch what I eat and exercise for health reasons, and I take care of my skin to ward off skin cancer, and I am careful about clothes and shoes I can walk in. I like wearing earrings and enjoy shopping for my pleasure, but I don't attempt to match the covers of magazines. Jamie Lee Curtis years ago did all us gals a great service by having herself photographed without the makeup and tricks that convince us she looks better than us. We'd look as good if we had seven assistants working their magic. I appreciate her bravery. We now know that magazines use body doubles, as do films, and with technology create a lie for the public to believe.
Cooperating with those who make money off our insecurities is self defeating. Speaking harshly about ourselves is ingratitude for the amazing bodies we possess. Tearing ourselves down is cruel and, unfortunately, usual punishment. Speak kindly to and about your body. It is your life, and it is uniquely yours. Treasure it.
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