Body Responsibility

When you think about responsibility, what pops into your mind? 

Daily tasks such as laundry, cooking, work emails? Maybe something a bit more personal- a morning routine, a therapy session, or planning date night with your partner? Truth is, work, family, relationships, self-care, all fall under the responsibility umbrella.  

This brings me to Body Responsibility. Essentially, this concept is about honoring our commitments we make to ourselves based on what we want for our body in addition to what it needs. 

I know that when I want to feel or look a certain way, I need to focus, be held accountable, and accept the consequences when I don’t follow through or lack consistency. 

The elements of responsibility are courage, honesty, accountability, and compassion.

Courage: I’ve personally dealt with a lot of negative, unsupportive comments in the past, and although they definitely bothered me, I’ve learned if I want to do something my way, screw what everyone else thinks. With a past of disordered eating, it’s not easy to go out with a group of people and stand up for yourself when jokes and comments are made around your food choices. Responsible behavior in a like situation would be: stay true to yourself, you know what’s best for your body and mental health.

Honesty: I love weight training- but I don’t always lift as heavy as I’m capable of. I might justify that by telling myself, “I will lift heavier tomorrow or add a few extra reps.” When I’m not consistent I tend to be hard on myself- but I AM honest and own the fact that I didn’t give it my all. Now, there are times when my body is tired and is craving rest and recovery, also Body Responsibility-honoring your bodies needs!

Accountability: Accountability is a vital part of the responsibility equation. It’s a simple concept- do what you say you will do. Making it happen is where the challenge kicks in. 

Some people are very structured, have specific routines, and are able to hold themselves accountable, while others need a bit of coaching and guidance. It is possible one might need an accountability partner for specific goals/commitments but not for others. Be responsible and figure out what works for you.

Compassion: Practice self-compassion every day! We need to be kind to ourselves and respect our bodies. Positive self-talk, encouragement, writing a letter to yourself, are all acts of showing compassion. Take responsibility for how you want to treat yourself and build daily habits around that. 

Think about what Body Responsibility means to you and what you’re doing to achieve the mental and physical results you want and deserve.