Learning life's hardest lesson - self acceptance

I believe we all have lessons in our lives... How many lessons will depend on the person! One of my biggest life lessons to date was to learn to accept myself!

I had been struggling for many years with my body image. Being born with strong broad shoulders and athletic body would be some people's dream but for me- it was quite the opposite. I was constantly being asked if I was a body builder, swimmer, triathlete, or how much protein to carb ratio I would eat. People constantly stare - and ask what do I do to be so fit, built, toned,  and big. I have random people telling me I shouldn't work out in the gym anymore or I'll get to big..... Funny as I never go to a gym!

I constantly struggle to find clothing that suits me due to my physique!

Years of constant torment and negative comments about how unnatural my body was for a female lead me to believe and feel I was unattractive, and a freak. I would have very narrow minded people saying I had muscles like a man- it was through the negative thoughts in my head - I was attracting this negativity.

It wasn't until I stood up to myself that things started to change. A few instances where I put people back into their place made me realise that no one has the right to put down your body!  After seeing my healer Julie Kay, and working extensively on changing my thought process from negative to positive. I started to accept my body as a gift rather than a curse and over time things started to change.

I started to thank my body for the gift it has given me- for without it I probably couldn't surf or paddle as strong as I can. I learnt to respect my body and in return my body gave me energy, and strength for racing.

I've come along way.... And the way I see things now that if a complete stranger can't say something positive then they are not worth even knowing!

What I once saw as my curse - My broad shoulders

Everyone has something about there body or themselves that they aren't happy with- but by not allowing yourself to be free of this- your not living your life to full potential!