This Is Your Brain on Fat Talk

 

Fat talk.

You know it when you hear it. It sounds a little something like this:

• "I shouldn't have eaten that. It's going to go right to my thighs."
• "I have to work out today. I feel like a blimp."
• "I can't wear these jeans. They make my butt look enormous."

Sure, those critical comments we make hurt us and others. But look beneath the words themselves and you'll find an underlying feeling: Shouldn't. Have to. Can't.

When we "talk fat," we focus on the negative and that creates a change in our perception -- of ourselves, of our world, of our lives and of the power we have.

Imagine, instead, a different way of looking at the same scenarios:

• I choose to enjoy this treat.
• I'm going to work out because I feel lean and strong when I do.
• I like the way this pair of jeans flatters my curves.

A simple change in word choice creates an entirely different feeling: Choose. Going to. Like.

Our perceptions are our reality. And the way we choose to talk about ourselves and our circumstances creates our perceptions.

Want a different reality? Try talking to yourself differently: Be positive. Be kind. Be honest.

The choice is yours.

Join Delta Delta Delta Sorority in putting a stop to fat talk. End Fat Talk now.

Comments

[Jami]

Out of curiousity, does talking about things like the Ralph Lauren models controversy count as "fat talk"? Or is it just comments aimed at yourself/each other?

[Melissa]

I did a post on this today, too, Dara!! (And attributed you :)

[Cynthia (It All Changes)]

That mindset is such a key to maintaining a healthy body image for me. Thanks for posting on this.

[Dara Chadwick]

Jami, I don't think discussing issues like the Ralph Lauren model counts as fat talk IF what you're talking about raises your consciousness about negative messages you send to yourself and others, or in some way causes you to think and reflect on your own body image. The reality is we have to think about this stuff; otherwise, we'd just be swallowing whatever the fashion and publishing industries are spoon feeding us about how we should look.

Melissa, thanks as always :-).

Cynthia, it's nice to "meet" you. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment!