Your body does not belong to them you know... the industries. The ones who sell you last-minute diets, then watch in glee as you lose yourself amongst the treats, before calling you back as you descend into a spiral of guilt, to begin another year. They want you exhausted, they want you ashamed, they want you desperate. But your body does not need them my friend, your body, in fact, knows exactly what it needs. It needs rest. It needs light, fresh air. It needs water. It needs acceptance, kindness. It even needs fun. Most of all, it needs not to be bombarded with everything at once, and then nothing at all. Stay checked in. Enjoy your meals. Eat with peace. With love. Never guilt. Guilt festers and rots. Your body is not a display piece, for the world to judge. It is your home. It is where you do your living. And a little bit of festive cheer need never deplete you of your pride. You can start the new year, full of food, full of happy memories, and full of acceptance that this is living. And balance will come, as balance does. Without shame playing any part at all. Wouldn’t that be new for ‘23? 〰️ Poem from the book ‘Life’ by @donnaashworthwords