Segment written by Muffy Churches For a Women’s Fitness story ( Editor, PENNY CARROLL)
We love our healthy, outside Aussie lifestyle- it’s great for our wellbeing and makes us smile. So why is it, for many of us, that the moment the word ‘beach’ or ‘pool’ comes up in conversation we miss a heartbeat and an imaginary spotlight shines brightly on our imperfections? Where oh where did we learn to allow our stretch marks, cellulite, or pale winter pudge to embarrass us, define us, or reduce our sense of personal value?
The more we focus on our ‘perceived’ flaws the stronger the impulse is to hide them and suddenly we feel a chokehold on what used to be carefree fun in the sun. We can though, empower ourselves to break free!
The following assignments are designed to boost your summer confidence levels. They’ll guide you to take the focus off of your body’s natural shortcomings, and instead place it on the thoughts that will provide your brain with a reason to release ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters, (Dopamine, serotonin and various endorphins). You’ll begin to feel more comfortable, at ease, and in control – ready to appear in that beautiful bikini, even with a little extra winter weight!
Assignment 1: “It’s a Matter of Mindset”
Shift your thinking from what’s lacking (the impossible perfect body) to what’s present and wonderful. Sit quietly with your eyes closed, and as you answer the following questions for yourself you will feel your body chemistry starting to shift:
• What is great in your life?
• Who do you love?
• What do your friends and family love about you?
• What are you good at?
• What makes you, you?
• What are your passions?
• Why do people enjoy being around you?
• Does a kilo or a stretch mark change any of this?
Assignment 2: Shifting the Negative Inner-voice
Over the years we’ve programmed our thinking to believe in various ‘stories’ about ourselves. These stories exist in the form of thought patterns, some of which serve us well and others that limit us from achieving our true potential. An example of a self-limiting belief is “I’m not attractive enough.” By shifting this habitual thought to something positive and constructive such as, “I have my own brand of beauty, both inside and out,” our life experience changes dramatically as we begin to feel more comfortable in our own shoes and empowered with the self-assuredness to stretch toward the vision we hold for ourselves.
1. Write a list of phrases (Personal stories or myths) that come to mind when you think about getting dressed for the surf or a pool party. (Example: “I just don’t have a beach body- I won’t go”)
2. Now write out a more positive flip side to each phrase. (Example: I can’t wait to shop for a swimsuit that’ll look and feel great- will be a fun day!”)
Assignment 3: “Wear Your Confidence Like An Outfit”
Having worked through assignments 1 & 2, you’ll be feeling appreciation for the opportunity to be ‘the-amazing-you’ in this life, coupled with the newfound security of a beautifully supportive inner-voice whispering in your ear. With all your ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters in place try this final step: • Imagine getting dressed in your new confidence, as if stepping into a pair of incredible looking jeans. Feel the wow, the excitement, and the luxury in your look. Carry this sense of personal comfort with you as you move through the day and allow it to guide your thoughts, mood and behaviour. Have fun!!!! Throw on a cossie and head for the beach!
Muffy Churches is the author of Coach Yourself, A 7-Step Guide to Personal Fulfilment (Love & Write Publishing) and is an internationally recognised integrative success coach. Born in the US and settled in Sydney, she works as a corporate trainer, executive coach, speaker, author, and counsellor. She has extensive experience in inspiring and initiating positive behavioural change in clients around the world. For more information visit www.muffychurches.com or contact muffy@muffychurches.com
