I realized that if I ever wanted to change physically it needed to start from the inside, by building a foundation of love and acceptance. So I did the dirty work. I journaled, read countless books and surrendered whatever timeline or expectations I had for myself. This did not happen overnight. It took a lot of work, self reflection and awareness to reverse years of body shaming and negative self-talk. And if I am being honest, it is something I still have to intentionally work on to this day. 


Once I changed my mindset, I began moving out of love for my body. Instead of looking at exercise as a way to punish my body for my poor food choices, I began looking at it as a way of celebrating my body for all that it could do. I also started looking at it as an investment in my future. As an Occupational Therapist I see first hand what years of neglecting your health will do to your body as you age. Fair warning: it is not pretty. Move now so you can continue to enjoy life later.


I eventually found the joy in movement. Almost 2 years later and I have never been stronger or more consistent than I am today. This is why I took a leap of faith and decided to create the fitness journal I wanted for myself. I realized that the Move With Purpose fitness journal could be helpful for women struggling with their body image as well. 


I am still on my own journey to becoming the best version of myself and loving myself every step of the way. It is a choice I make everyday and I pray that MELA VIE empowers you to do the same. 


Nowadays, you can still find me reading a book but instead of cookies I’m sipping on Chai Tea….with an occasional cookie here and there ;)


Xoxo
Mela

my body, mind, and soul are not isolated from each other. They are interconnected and if one is affected then they all are. I can’t love one and hate the other because my mind and soul live within my body.