I’ve dealt with body image issues for years and am trying to love my body, but some days it feels impossible. How can I begin to feel good about myself?
Hi Isabelle_Shea,
Welcome, and thank you for sharing something so personal. It takes real courage to express that struggle. You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way, especially in this particular forum category. Many people find that the trauma of betrayal can deeply fracture their self-image, making the journey toward self-acceptance feel like an uphill battle.
A good starting point is to try and separate your feelings about your body from any past relationship hurts. This is difficult but crucial. Instead of focusing on appearance, could you try small practices that connect you to what your body does? For example, a short walk where you notice the feeling of movement, or taking a moment to appreciate a deep breath. The goal isn’t to love how it looks today, but to build a neutral or slightly positive relationship with its function.
Pros of this approach:
- Shifts focus from aesthetics to capability and sensation.
- Provides small, manageable actions on hard days.
- Helps build a foundation separate from past relational trauma.
Cons to be aware of:
- It requires consistent practice; results aren’t immediate.
- On very difficult days, even small tasks can feel overwhelming.
- It addresses the internal relationship but not external triggers.
Be patient with yourself. This is a process, not a switch to flip. Would you be open to sharing what a “good day” looks like for you right now? Sometimes identifying those moments can help create more of them.