Real Talk⚡️
(TW: weight loss, diet culture)

Has anyone else noticed their body changing quickly this year?! I have. Lots of changes, actually. I’ve got some new stretch marks and am about a size bigger. And I know I’m not the only one, so this is why I’m sharing.

I had a moment getting out of the shower today where I realized I was no longer shaming myself for these body changes.

Instead, I’ve become curious.

Instead of saying “Ashley, what have you done to yourself” igniting a pointless cycle of shame — I’m saying “Ashley, let’s explore what this weight gain might be related to in your life.”

It could be meds. Stress. Anxiety. Hormones. A variety of things.

But I’ll tell you what my quick weight gain this year isn’t related to: my lack of commitment to a diet or exercise plan. (I know this, because I haven’t changed anything besides actually nourishing myself more often in two+ years).

I encourage everyone reading this to do the following: quit blaming your sudden body changes on an unsustainable diet plan you’ve never been able to stick to, or the exercise you haven’t been doing. Food should enjoyed and used to fuel your body, and exercise is a tool to move your body for joy and make you stronger. It should never be about the way our bodies look.

Ditch that mindset entirely. Instead focus on re-connecting with your body, mind and soul... so that you’re able to respond from curiosity rather than shame when something seems off.

And remember this: bodies ARE supposed to change, and it’s okay to be CURIOUS. But never, ever should you give that much power to diet or exercise culture.

Having this mindset has helped me do positive things for myself, including moving forward on continuing to move my body for joy and listening to what my body needs to fuel it. Something I couldn’t do previously because of orthorexia.

Have grace with yourself and get curious. Fat isn’t bad. Stretch marks aren’t bad. These are normal things that all body types experience.

Thanks for letting me be open here, and remember this is my own journey and everyone’s is different. What’s triggering to me may not be for you, and vice versa. 🖤