How To Love Yourself Through Your Fitness Journey

Taja Watkins-Scott, BS

Physical Health & Wellness Associate

Before the end of 2020, I vowed to myself that I would make the effort and take the time to engage in practices and activities to boost my love of self.
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Self-love practice should be mandatory for all in my opinion as it just makes so much sense.  The longest relationship that any of us will ever have is that with ourselves, so why not improve that relationship?

Participating in physical activity is in fact one of the ways that you can show love to yourself both inside and out.  We all know that exercise will improve your mental health, physical health, physical appearance and even boost your confidence and self-esteem.  All these are ways of indirectly giving love to the self.  You can also use physical activity as a way of consciously showing love to yourself:
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1. Mirror affirmations – Look at your body in the mirror (naked if you feel comfortable enough to do so) and focus on the areas that you love and say out loud why you love those parts (even if it is just one part, it is a great place to start and build on from there).
2. Gratitude – When moisturizing or bathing, mindfully thank each body part that you're focusing on in that moment and say why you are grateful for it (something like: “thank you arms for the amazing hugs you give and receive” - say what feels right for you).
3. Mindfulness – While working out, whether it be a walk or a high intensity workout or weights session, set an intention beforehand of what you aim to achieve out of the activity.  Once the activity is completed (whether is it completely successful or not) thank yourself and tell yourself “I love you”.

You may not have the body you want yet, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t show it love now.  Love your body throughout the whole process; for where you were, to where you are now and as the journey continues love your body for where it will go.

The more love you show to yourself, the better you will be at showing love to others and in return you’ll naturally command the love that you deserve to be reciprocated by others.

Taja Watkins-Scott, BS

My name is Taja Watkins-Scott and professionally, I am a holistic bodywork therapist specializing in Swedish massage, sports massage and rehabilitation and acupuncture. Personally, I would describe myself as a nurturer and spiritual being navigating the human experience of life and while on this journey I am using my gifts to bring love, light and healing to as many people as I possibly can to raise the vibration of the world around us. I am a firm believer that our health should be considered holistically as every aspect of our lives;  physically, spiritually and emotionally are all interconnected. I take this approach with my own life and treat my clients accordingly. Although I am a bodywork therapist, many of my clients have found a safe space in me to be vulnerable and let go of anxieties they may be holding on to. As someone who also lives with anxiety it warms my heart that others can find a safe haven in me to let go of theirs. Instagram: @Mahtajmidasliving