Is "body positivity" blocking you from being the healthiest you?

I recently had a conversation with one of my viewers who asked, “How do you feel about the body positive movement in terms of fat people not trying to lose weight?” I have struggled to write about this subject for a long time. Hesitant because I fear my bias will unintentionally offend somebody. There are so many reasons someone might be struggling with their weight and I can only speak to my own truth and my own experiences. 


I truly believe our moods depend on our health. I’m all about “loving yourself the way you are,” but I think it’s an important quality for any person to recognize where they can improve. I don’t think “losing weight” is necessarily that improvement, but the mentality that goes into treating our bodies kindly can reflect on our attitude as a whole. Completely transforming our views on overcoming obstacles, building strength wherever needed, and the power and control we have when we set our minds to positive change! Healthier is happier and I think as long as life feels fulfilling and we find a way to feel strong and confident, weight is just a number. 


People do all sorts of unhealthy things that might not be as visible or criticized as often, such as drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes. It’s about establishing the gains and losses. What these indulgences or habits give us and what they take from us. What genuinely lifts our mood and provides a well-being we can be proud of.


I have never dieted in my life. I eat healthy overall but definitely indulge in the foods I want. My weight loss journey was less about sacrificing the things I enjoy and more about adding opportunity to feel healthier. Pursuing motivation to stay active like following home workout accounts on social media, and finding ways to enjoy eating healthy like experimenting with new recipes. 


My transformation seemed almost backwards. I found my light mentally first, and the physical transformation came naturally. As if being truly satisfied with myself inspired the full package to fall in line. So I would say to anyone who is wondering if it’s okay to love yourself as a “fat person”: Of course! But I’d challenge you to be vulnerable with your own truth. 


“Loving yourself” to me means taking action in nurturing mind, body and soul. I determine a person’s maturity by whether or not they want to work on themselves daily for the rest of their life. I encourage everyone to reflect on where they may be settling. Where they may be justifying something because it feels easier than putting in work to change. Is it a body positive movement to accept a fate as if we’re stuck with it? Or is it more body positive to stay in touch and in tune with how to be kinder and more loving to ourselves? Everything comes back to our energy. I believe a healthy life is a fulfilling one.

Read more about my weight loss journey.