We're taking a little "seventh inning stretch" with a couple of articles for you to consider before we come back next week to talk about respecting our bodies. I hope both of these articles get you rethinking some beliefs about weight I'm at least 99% sure you've been taught.
This first item is the story of a woman who will wreck any preconceived ideas you may have about what a marathon runner looks like. You can find it here. It’s not a long read.
The second item, Everything You Know About Obesity is Wrong, is a longer article, but well worth the time investment. If you've ever wondered how an obese person could have gotten to that point, or if you're obese and have ever thought, "What is wrong with me? How could I let myself get to this weight," please, please, please read this piece! And share it!
A little side note - When choosing a picture to go with the second article, I first searched the free images my site host offers. I typed in "obese person." The result? "Hmm...nothing's turning up for 'obese person'." I tried "fat person." Result? Same. I tried "obese" and "fat." Same sorry result. I broadened my search to "person" and went through hundreds of photos. There were people of a wide variety of ages, races, nationalities, physical abilities, and more, but not one shot of a larger sized person. Not one. Not exaggerating. I could only shake my head and think we have a long way to go. I ended up going elsewhere and purchasing the lovely shot above.
Our society has unarguably unhealthy and mostly unhelpful views of obesity and body size in general. Hopefully, these articles begin or support your changing thoughts about weight and health. Next week we'll explore how to respect our bodies regardless of size.