Understanding Your Body Type

When you get dressed in the morning, do you look at yourself with pride or do you avoid the mirror altogether? True confession: I spent the early part of my adolescence trying to diet away my naturally strong body to fit society's version of what is beautiful. It's mind-blowing to think that we only see one type of beauty out there and we're all somehow expected to fit that impossible mold.

The truth is we are all born with different body shapes that we can't change. And that's OK. When I'm in yoga class, the instructor tells us not to pay attention to the person next to you. It's the journey that matters, not the destination. That's how I want you to approach your body image.

But first, know your body type. Here are the three definitions:

1. Ectomorph. You're tall and thin with long arms and legs. You have a hard time gaining weight and muscle.
   
   
2. Endomorph. You're apple- or pear-shaped and carry more body fat. You have a hard time losing weight.
   
   
3. Mesomorph. You're generally muscular and have stocky arms and legs. You're strong and tend to gain muscle mass when strength training. It's sometimes difficult to lose weight, but you build muscle well.
   

Don't fret if your body doesn't fit one of these definitions to a tee. Some of us are a combo. But once you understand your natural body type, you can then start to accept your natural shape. And then, you'll realize that no matter how little you eat or how much you work out, you will not look like Cameron Diaz or Jennifer Lopez. The next step is to then stop punishing yourself because of it. There are so many flowers that make up a bouquet, and they're each beautiful in their own unique way. It's time to take back our bodies and take a stand for who we are: gorgeous, strong, and proud!

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