You Are More Than What You See
A compassionate guide for healing self-worth and embracing your sacred body through faith, grace, and gentle transformation. By Maria Silva, MS, LMHC, NPT-C
This blog post is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical advice.
Reading it does not create a therapist-client relationship. For personal concerns or crises, contact a licensed professional or emergency services.
You Are More Than What You See: A Healing Guide for Self-Worth & Body Acceptance
Dear one, I know how heavy it can feel to look in the mirror and see only what you think is "not enough." When you've spent years comparing yourself to others, or when past words have taught you to see yourself through the lens of judgment, it's easy to believe that your body is something to fix instead of something to cherish. The weight of these beliefs can feel crushing, like carrying stones you never chose to pick up.
Perhaps you've heard voices from your past echoing in your mind, or maybe the world's narrow definitions of beauty have become your measuring stick. But today, right here in this moment, there's an invitation waiting for you. I want to invite you to see yourself differently, not through the eyes of the world, but through the eyes of truth. This isn't about positive thinking or pretending the pain isn't real. It's about gently uncovering what has always been true: you are fearfully and wonderfully made, and your worth was never up for debate.
This journey we're beginning together isn't about perfection. It's about permission, permission to be human, permission to heal at your own pace, and permission to believe that you are worthy of love exactly as you are right now.
Reframe old truths like “I am not beautiful” with new truths such as: I was beautifully and intentionally created (Psalm 139:14).
1. Pause and speak grace. 2. Feed your soul before fixing your image. .3 Move your body with love, not punishment. 4. Surround yourself with truth. 5. Mirror moments of truth.
Writing can be a powerful tool for uncovering buried beliefs. Try asking yourself “What acts of kindness can I offer my body this week?”. Remember that difficult emotions can arise while journaling and that is okay. Be gentle with yourself and take breaks when needed.
In order to change we need to go through different stages: Awareness, compassion, acceptance and integration. It is about notice our behavior, and offering compassion for ourselves instead of feeling shame; as well as, accepting ourselves as whole individuals by experiencing joy and gratitude. Lastly living from a place of peace and gratitude by practicing daily affirmation and celebrate where you came from.
You are not behind. You are healing in REAL time. Your body has carried you through storms and seasons of life. It is time to rest in love and truth. You are beautiful and it is woven into the fabric of your being. Healing is not a destination to arrive someday. It is happening right now. You are worthy of love and rest,
When negative thoughts arise. Return to your grounding practices. Take three deep breaths and place a hand on your heart. Speak one of the truths you have learned about yourself. Remember you do not have to belive this fully yet. Keep listing affimations. They can be rooted in scripture and your identity with Christ. Read them each morning and let them become a soundtrack of your inner world, making the critical voices less loud. Lastly, celebrate every moment of kindness, Write down each moment you choose kindness toward yourself (even the small ones) These victories are worth honoring. Take one day at the time and remember you are 100% worthy of love right no. God’s love is infinate.