It’s always a good time for a reminder that we truly are our harshest critics and the biggest thing holding us back from feeling at peace with our bodies.
Facebook page My Real Yoga Body, which advocates body diversity and body positivity, reposted a photo from blogger The Raw Xperience, a man who is chronicling his journey to lose 400 pounds. This is how the anonymous man described himself on Facebook:
I’ve been overweight my entire life. I was always the biggest guy in the room. For the longest time, that’s who I thought I was supposed to be. I’m a 38 year old male, who has finally decided to change my life. At my highest weight I was 669 pounds. This came from years of being lazy, depressed, and not motivated to do anything. My life seems like it’s been one huge roller coaster ride. In hind site I realize that every choice I’ve made has led me to this point in my life. Right now is the perfect time and place to be.
I can see my future for the first time, and it’s looking very bright. I look forward to sharing my journey with you, and if you get just the slightest inspiration to change your life, it was all worth it to me.
In his photo that is getting so much attention, The Raw Xperience explains in the caption that when he first looked at this photo, he felt disgusted with the physical appearance of his body. But after hearing his yoga teacher’s praise for executing the pose, he started to see himself differently.
My yoga teacher took this of me today. When I look at this my first reaction is of disgust. I didn’t see what my teacher…
Posted by The Raw Xperience on Wednesday, April 1, 2015
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Positive comments and encouragement from commenters has been rolling in. Many people are thanking The Raw Xperience for posting the photo, saying that his positivity has inspired them and even motivated them to appreciate their own bodies. In a Facebook post, The Raw Xperience shared that he’s been overwhelmed by the response his post has gotten:
I have to say I’m in awe of the response my photo has gotten. It’s been a bit overwhelming, but the good kind. I can feel the love and support from everyone who has like, shared, commented the photo. My heart is running over with love. People are awesome!! “ª#yogaisforeverybody”¬
Next time you’re quick to judge yourself (or someone else, for that matter), look at the good, incredible things your body can do instead of focusing on the imperfections. Focusing on the positive will not only keep you feeling confidence, but it’ll also help you better reach all your health and wellness goals.
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