We can do this!

I don't know one female who hasn't had some sort of body image issues in their life. Personally, I have struggled with my body image ever since elementary school and it seems as if no matter how much I exercise, diet, or don't eat I am never fully satisfied. Sound familiar? I have plenty of friends with the same problem, and the sad part is, most of us are perfectly healthy and don't need to be worried about our bodies.

I have been training for a half marathon this semester and after a stress fracture scare, failed diets, over training, and joint pains, I have learned that balance is the key to loving yourself and keeping yourself motivated.

Here are some of the things I have learned that have helped me:

1. It is ok to splurge. I have an enormous sweet tooth and depriving myself of sweets was actually making me a little depressed (I know, I'm a little pathetic; but hey, I need my sweets).

These are some of my favorite indulgences:)

Chocolate chip cookies:))) Homemade and freshly baked--definitely my favorite comfort food.

One thing I learned from reading Runner's World nutrition articles is that dark chocolate is good for you! I especially like this Theo chocolate because it is organic and fair trade.

IHop pancakes are a gift from God. My friends and I like to study at the 24 hour IHop down the street, and midnight pancakes are a perfect mid-study pick-me-up.

2. Wear clothes that make you feel pretty. Whenever I wear clothes that are too tight, don't fit right, or don't correspond with my mood, I don't feel confident. These are some of my favorite styles to wear.

I love fun and interesting hoodies. They're comfy and cute! Can't beat that.

I really like to wear flowy dresses. They are really flattering and make me feel pretty.

I practically live in vintage T's and faded jeans. I'm kind of into the grunge look and love feeling trendy and comfortable.

3. Schedule in quiet time. In the past, I have filled the little free time I have had with appointments, coffee dates with friends, and extra studying, but I have recently found that a little me time every now and then can energize me.

My me time usually consists of my Bible and a couple of devotionals. Here are my two favorites.

4. Talk with a good friend. Relationships are an essential part of human life and finding someone you can share your struggles with is extremely important. Whenever I am having a difficult day, I know I can count on my best friend Katelyn to cheer me up:)

This is a picture of us at the Santa Monica Pier for Katelyn's birthday.

5. Do something spontaneous! Doing something out of the blue is a really good way to break out of daily routines. My favorite spontaneous adventure was a trip to Half Moon Bay with a few friends.