Ask Jes - Big Gal from Los Angeles
Dear Jes,
I am a 23 year old over weight woman who enjoys exercise and going to spas. When I was a teenager I tried every diet and medication that came along some of them making me very ill. When I turned 21 I gave myself the best birthday present I could think of. I decided that I was no longer going to worry about my size.
I love vegetables and I make sure I’m getting enough protein and carbohydrates to balance my energy level. I don’t eat junk food. I have never been sick except from dieting. I work out 5 days a week and have pretty good tone even though I’m heavy. The problem I would like help with is how to deal with people at the health club where I work out. Invariably the conversation works around to them making some comment like, “How long have you been on your weight loss program?” Or when they see me pumping iron or running on the tread mill, they want to know how much weight I have lost! They make assumptions without knowing anything about me or what I’ve been through. I feel like everyone thinks I’m a fatty because I don’t take care of myself. It feels unfair to be judged in this way. Do you have any suggestions?
Big Gal from LA
Dear Big Gal,
Unfortunately, people make erroneous assumptions all the time. We would be a much better society if we could stop doing this to others. But I’m afraid we’re just not there yet on our evolutionary journey. The under current in our society is, you’re not OK if you deviate from the norm especially when it comes to a person’s physical appearance.
So since everyone seems to be projecting their own thoughts onto you, my advice is to let them know exactly what you’re about. When someone makes a comment about weight loss or dieting (even if you have to pretend at first) reply in an upbeat and positive tone; “Me, diet? No way! I gave up on that a long time ago. I’m into accepting myself as I am and making my self the best I can be. That’s why I’m down here on this tread mill 5 days a week.” Or, when they ask how long you’ve been working on your weight loss program smile politely while you say, “I’m not at all interested in losing weight. I figure if I workout 5 times a week, eat great food and love myself, I’m really doing better than most people I know.”
I guarantee you that responses like these will make them start thinking outside their little boxes. And speaking of wrapped boxes with lovely ribbons, what a wonderful birthday present you gave yourself. It was a giant step on the road to self love and I for one applaud you for having the courage to accept yourself!
Enjoy ALL of You!
Jes Ryn
About Jes:
Jes Ryn is an intuitive healer, author, spiritual coach and Reiki Master. Ryn’s years spent within the nursing field and later as a life/health coach gives her a unique prospective for blending traditional western knowledge with alternative modalities.
Helping clients with life issues has been a natural progression of Jes Ryn’s work. She believes that, “Physical illness has its root in disconnection from spirit. If you can reconnect to your inner core of spiritual wellness your body and mind will shortly follow suit.”
The Beauty Show is honored to have Jes Ryn as a business – life-path coach. Jes will be pleased to hear from you and answer your questions here in the “Ask Jes” monthly column.
To ask a question, please write to: askjes@thebeautyshow.com
For inquiry on a private consultation or coaching, please write Jes directly at: jesryn@juno.com
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