FOOD FOR THOUGHT- Featuring MacKenzie Puricelli (Life Style Coach)
Updated: Mar 30, 2022
It is 2022. By now it is apparent how much you weigh is the least important thing about you. However why is weight frequently idolized? And why is the impact that bodily appearance has on this generation so severe? According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, approximately 24 million people in the United States suffer from an eating disorder. This number is far too severe however there is not enough resources and information around wellness that is truly healthy, beneficial, and supportive.
Today I decided to interview a woman I look up to tremendously for her perspectives on health, fitness, wellness, and media. MacKenzie is a content creator and fitness instructor who specializes in nutritional science and wellness. She has a successful business where her goal is to help you to enjoy food & exercise while working towards the most confident version of your body/self. Here are some key things she shared in regards to emotional and physical wellbeing.
MACKENZIE'S TOP 10 PIECES OF WISDOM TO KEEPING A POSITIVE EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL WELLBEING
Recognize every body is inherently unique and no one is going to look the same. You can be categorized as overweight but extremely healthy however you can also have a body that is idolized by the media but you can be unhealthy.
Understand health can come in many forms. Who you spend time with, what social media you digest, your mental clarity, etc.
Being "healthy" can be adapted to your personal situation. If you lack time or motivation, even going on a short 10 minute walk can help improve your mood. Create a meal schedule that's realistic for you and that increases your happiness.
The way you look at food does not have to have negative emotions tied to it. Taking away shame from specific foods is the first step to mindful eating.
Follow those on social media who inspire you. If someone is posting something you don't agree with or that makes you feel negative about your body image, you have no reason to continue to ingest their content.
You don't look at your friends or family and love them because of the way they look. You love them for who you are. Try to put that mindset towards yourself and why your friends and family love you, it's definitely not because of how much you weigh.
There will always be something you can change, and you always want what you don't have. Comparison is a thief of joy.
Face filters are what will remain on your photos, the ones that you will show your kids in the future. How do you want people to remember you?
Do your research! Invest in your health! Your body is what will carry you through the rest of your life and it is worth investing in. Be kind to yourself. When you look at my body and nothing but negativity comes to my mind, sit down and remind yourself who else you are. What hobbies do you enjoy? What music makes you happy? How many books have you read? Who makes you feel special? Where have you traveled to? What's your favorite home cooked meal? What do you enjoy about the place you live at?
BIGGEST PIECE OF ADVICE: Right now you think the way you look is the most important thing however when you look back at yourself in 10 years, you will see that your spirit, your joy, your energy, your compassion, and your love are way more important.
If you're interested in following Mackenzie and supporting her business, her instagram is @mbpuricelli or @teammbpfit. Her website is https://www.mbpfitness.com/
References:
https://nutrition.org/eating-disorders-are-on-the-rise/
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-love-yourself-now-_b_6282108