There seems to be a day for everything in these times (there’s one for crocs, fountain pens and paperclips!) However, this is one that we can really get on board with. The 13th November is World Kindness Day. Kindness works in many ways; kindness to each other and kindness to yourself. It ties in so crucially to maintaining a healthy body image that we wanted to look at how we can all top up our kindness and feel better for it.
Kindness is…
How do you practice kindness in a positive way? It shouldn’t be about people pleasing and becoming a doormat to the demands of others. Instead, kindness comes from the same mindset as self care.
Acceptance
We live in a diverse world; both in appearance and beliefs. It’s important to practice acceptance of those who are different to you, but also to accept yourself. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have goals or strive for self improvement. To truly accept yourself is an important foundation on which to build confidence and self esteem. This is a key part of reducing that sense of simmering rage that social media can sometimes incite!
Inclusion
To feel seen is one of the most powerful ways to be kind, both for yourself and for those around you. In action, this can mean something as simple as holding the door for someone less able. Notice what is around you and engage with it. This makes you part of your own corner of the world, which brings with it a little bit of fulfilment. Inclusion always leads to human connection, which brings with it a greater sense of happiness.
A Compliment
Pay someone a compliment. Either on their appearance, or on an achievement. Perhaps even more importantly, practice accepting a compliment. We all too often brush off compliments with self deprecation. Someone tells us we look great in a dress, and we say “oh, it’s just down to my shapewear!” Opening yourself up to receiving kind words will allow them to become part of your self image. Because you do look great in the dress!
Encouragement
While not everything needs encouragement – your 4 year old nephew’s penchant for licking stones for example – a little boost can go a long way. Encourage yourself in your own personal growth by trying something new. This could be anything from trying a new interest to trying a new look. Give it a go, and you may find a new path or help others on their own journey.
Taking a Pause
By taking life a bit slower and allowing more pauses, you’ll find that kindness naturally seeps through. This works in a practical way by trying to take daily life a bit slower. Yes, time is precious but a pause for 10 seconds in your car to let someone cross the road, or a pause before you speak to respond in a measured way could change the trajectory of someone’s day. Or you may benefit from a meditative pause. Breathing meditation and mindfulness can help you to feel calmer and more in control.
A Smile
We don’t always feel like it, but sometimes a smile really can lift your mood! When a smile is returned, it’ll make you smile more. You never know who might need a friendly look, even just in passing. Checking out your party dress in the mirror? Smile at yourself. You might feel bonkers, but we bet you feel more sparkly in that outfit. It’s not just down to control briefs! Smile and the world smiles with you? Maybe not all the time, but most of the time is good enough for us.
Our range of confidence boosting shapewear can help with your sense of gorgeousness, but team it with a bit of kindness and the world is a brighter place!
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.
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