Feelin' Myself

The title above has become my favourite hashtag.

#FeelinMyself

Lately, I've been all about body positivity, which is sad all on its own because why shouldn't we feel good and respect all body types? Why should people feel ashamed of how they look, or feel the need to shun any other body type that doesn't represent the ideal?

The tall, leggy, long haired and slim girl. The big, muscly, ab - studded stud?

While some people might feel that I'm promoting unhealthy lifestyles or obesity, I would like to clarify that I believe in a healthy life. Eating right and exercise are very important. However, many people tend to forget that physical fitness isn't the only important part of well being in a person's life. Mental and emotional health and self esteem are just as fundamental to a human being.

Constant assertions that because you are not like the ideal type, hence there must be something wrong with you, are mean spirited and - excuse my language - bitchy. Ignoring the fact that people have feelings and that you might be hurting them, no matter how right you think you are, is wrong.

Let's not forget that just because someone might have the "ideal" qualities listed above, that does not mean they are healthy and thriving on the inside. Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there. The same way that just because a person is not a size 2, does not mean they are bottomless pits of fries and milkshakes.

No one is perfect. Those who are slimmer than average, those who are chubbier than recommended, even those who seem to fit the categories deemed as proper by society. There are some really unhealthy people out there, and they need all the help they can get.

However, we all have the right to love ourselves. We all have the right to not feel less than. We are all trying to evolve into a better version of ourselves, even if we don't realize it. Nobody has the right to make you or someone you love feel low because of how you look.

We all have the right to Feel Ourselves. To love our bodies. Yes, we should pay utmost attention to taking care of our shells. Loving yourself should not be an excuse to be oblivious to things you need to work on. However, make sure that you pay attention to the pearl that's inside that shell. That is the most valuable part anyway.