Body image issues

Last weekend one of my dearest mates was here from Cape Town and we were chatting about the conversations she is having with her six-year-old daughter about her body and, more disturbingly, her "weight". 

The other day she asked her mom if she looked fat in a particular T-shirt. 

Her mom's reaction was exasperated, followed by "don't be absolutely ridiculous". The latest war is far from over regarding why her mom won't buy her a bikini - an item my friend deems unnecessary at the tender age of six. 

My Lula is only two years old but I know that around the next few corners the questions and comparisons are going to be full-on and hardcore. I am still personally searching for the answers to this tricky self-comparing epidemic and hopefully when the time comes I will be prepared. 

I have recently (for the umpteenth time) embarked on a journey of health and balance. 

After the twins pregnancy I was left feeling totally out of kilter and the mission to marry mind, body and soul is a daily show of dedication and investment.  

Every day I am fine-tuning the notion and motion of healthy, balanced living and couldn't agree more that healthy is the new skinny. 

Incidentally, late last night I took a screenshot of this distressing image. 

Such powerful words as well. 

As a parent, how do you deal with issues related to self-esteem and body image?

Know thy worth and live and love your only you.

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