Sometimes, when I feel unwelcome in my own body, I try reminding myself that those who find comfort resting on my lap won't care about the size of my thighs.

But it doesn't always work.

My vision becomes blurry and my throat stings, unshed tears forming a heavy lump. I helplessly look toward Rama and Sita. They try giving me reasons why I shouldn't let this body become a source of anxiety. It is supposed to be—temporary as it may be—my home for the rest of my life, however long that is.

Most of their words go unheard by me, and yet the stand before me, waiting patiently for the day I will learn to shed all these material worries,

And only focus on becoming content with myself, just for myself,

And for them.

All pieces in this collection have come from a very vulnerable space in my heart, but I think this tops the list.

Additionally, this is not to dismiss the necessity of working out or staying healthy, but rather an attempt to point out that shame and guilt about one's own self or body image is never a good foundation to build habits. That's just basic psychology, and a principle I have been trying to learn myself (I have still not been successful at it).

So all I want to say to those of you who felt like you weren't allowed to accept the way your body is, and work for its needs (rather than its appearance) is...

just try giving yourself a chance, from a place of love <3

- sri sauri sakhi