tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86519655963732483292024-03-14T06:00:03.556+00:00Damson Belle's Style BlogDenise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-40923039537914354052023-02-13T13:56:00.000+00:002023-02-13T13:56:45.970+00:00Jan-year-ary, FebrUary!<h3 style="text-align: left;">Jan-year-ary was long but now gone, and February is flying by.</h3><p>I know we're past the "Happy New Year" ph(r)ase but I've not said it to you yet, so here we are. We're now closer to Spring with the evenings getting lighter. Yeah! I don't know about you, but I'm just recovering from what felt like a year last month, so the season change can't come soon enough! </p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Looking back, though, here are three things and thoughts from January.</h4><p>One of my self-care plans was to break my habit of hibernating until the weather gets warmer. I made sure I had <b>a few good reasons to get outside</b>, and walking my borrow dog Winston was a big one especially when I combined it with meeting people a few times to max out on the positive vibes. I am not one for exercise, don't always move enough and rebel a bit because so much physical activity is linked to losing pounds. That said, movement matters - getting out and about has helped with my mood and my aches, and I plan to do it more to help with my sleep too.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mvxxtSOnpqA4YotsXQ_WR1M_Z8Ae1AF6tCxPdfsZk-f2Yz-pBgR1giyLQTyqJo-7F_u9e779b1_7fsP3NaYiyhBBMzNoVg0duosPWYISVF5oMZ6nqyoJTlFAox5da20EQjy6xORiA9n4SFx8LdlzCw95UisjXRe-Yur687fxK7YiF9gJAmld1W0lXA/s2982/20230213_134004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2982" data-original-width="2237" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mvxxtSOnpqA4YotsXQ_WR1M_Z8Ae1AF6tCxPdfsZk-f2Yz-pBgR1giyLQTyqJo-7F_u9e779b1_7fsP3NaYiyhBBMzNoVg0duosPWYISVF5oMZ6nqyoJTlFAox5da20EQjy6xORiA9n4SFx8LdlzCw95UisjXRe-Yur687fxK7YiF9gJAmld1W0lXA/w150-h200/20230213_134004.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><p>The weather may have been dreary but <b>I wore colour</b> to combat that, and to hold on to the Christmas vibe, and that meant red and green were my colours of the month. In my card deck, I talk about colour as part of the D is for Dress reflection because I'm a great believer in the impact of colour on and creating a mood. Our wellbeing is about our environment and what we put on, as well as what we put in our bodies (in my humble opinion).</p><p><b>Social-media-wise</b> I did a <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/denisesanderson_inclusion-wellbeing-backtowork-activity-7015983914313764864-a2mg?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop" target="_blank">post </a>on LinkedIn about going back to work and snuck in a reminder for people to be mindful of 'New Year, New You' and exercise/diet chat which had 1,978 impressions. As you may know, it's a regular thing for me to push back on such narratives, and I also posted "5 ways to push back" on the subject in my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>. As some of us move into Lent (February through March), I'd say the same again. (IYKYK)</p><p>In general the month was long and had its challenges, and* it was also pretty good... on reflection! </p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Note that 'and' giving space for both - replace 'but' with 'and' for a softer take on plenty 😉</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">And now, here we are in February...</h4><p>The big news at this point is that I finally took a long-overdue trip to get my hair done! That might sound like a 'so what?', but for me, it's an important act of <b>self-care</b> (look at the blogs labelled 'hair' and you'll get it).</p><p>Given Valentines Day (and Galentines) is upcoming, look out for lots on <b>self-love</b> but remember, self-care can happen even in the absence of 'self-lurve!' and simply being respectful, neutral and kind to yourself is important - more important, and often less expensive and harder than the marketers will tell you such as setting boundaries, speaking kindly to and about yourself, saying no and just having a proper rest. And actually, that is all part of self-love! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghGe9_L9Sdksznd3-7bWP1EG4ZGZzdL69Y6MP6xuufgfzAm7S0MyETeHQjDtCOfoLFe05g_kc71yI8fvmhpI5LLDoAacB8_XMkWh00vKut3vhLcGHT3TCKfJ_-rcg5irgQ0AF4BkzvmA6KkQMWABSo-z94DYx_h1tNSTpnjYRSL5mye07e1EX1mZm5A/s2896/20230204_015112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2896" data-original-width="2896" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghGe9_L9Sdksznd3-7bWP1EG4ZGZzdL69Y6MP6xuufgfzAm7S0MyETeHQjDtCOfoLFe05g_kc71yI8fvmhpI5LLDoAacB8_XMkWh00vKut3vhLcGHT3TCKfJ_-rcg5irgQ0AF4BkzvmA6KkQMWABSo-z94DYx_h1tNSTpnjYRSL5mye07e1EX1mZm5A/w200-h200/20230204_015112.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jOE5aUax1nuJYYgXXjdMGJpZiHiIn8lEkgDk2Wd1Yk3t1nnH7JrEblfz0eQBplhsnt_PY5y9hPGzsdQyNqkz69mGaQzAB1XqDvZXyNy_a4YjnrdcTQydAkMHaX8K0CtD_csAnRqeg-VhASEGMtKc81JdMMXsL-ewHmwvI3erH3VZrjPwjH_rq5mSQQ/s2896/20230205_223404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2896" data-original-width="2896" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jOE5aUax1nuJYYgXXjdMGJpZiHiIn8lEkgDk2Wd1Yk3t1nnH7JrEblfz0eQBplhsnt_PY5y9hPGzsdQyNqkz69mGaQzAB1XqDvZXyNy_a4YjnrdcTQydAkMHaX8K0CtD_csAnRqeg-VhASEGMtKc81JdMMXsL-ewHmwvI3erH3VZrjPwjH_rq5mSQQ/w200-h200/20230205_223404.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Another pretty big (less 'me') thing is that I've added a few new products to my </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/BodyConfidenceCards" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a><span style="text-align: left;">. One of the themes is a black beauty statement, and the other is related to the most popular card in the Affirmation Deck (back to that self-love point again) according to buyers and friends. Please take a look, spread the word and tell me what else you'd be interested in. </span></div></div><p>-----</p><p>So, how have the first six weeks of the year been for you and what's up next? I hope Jan-year-ary wasn't too bad for you and that there are lots of loves to live for in FebrUary... take care of U and don't forget to find time for self-care (and self-love if you can) with all the talk of romance that will soon be upon us!</p><p>Back soon with more Feb in focus, take care until then.</p><p>Denise x</p><p> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></p><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">Sign-up for my n</span><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">ewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/11ac495e6edc/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-may-16088207</span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-91678653805547030962022-10-18T16:42:00.003+01:002022-10-18T17:50:49.680+01:00Body Confidence and MenopauseToday is "World Menopause Day" - something that didn't get spoken of just one generation ago. Thanks to Davina McCall starting with "Sex, Myths and the Menopause" the UK is amplifying talk of menopause of late - even in workplaces, and I remain here for it as I continue to navigate (peri?-)menopause.<div></div><div><br /></div><div>As my body changes - more tummy, less waist; more skin issues, less hair - I've obviously reflected on the impact of these changes on my body image, and what I might offer the menopause and body confidence communities I am part of.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd suggest nobody is body confident all the time, and I know I'm certainly not. That's why there's a focus on body neutrality - the idea that we should focus on accepting our bodies as they are, and on what they can do (though the latter part requires consideration with regards to ableism). Body neutrality is a good base for coping with Menopause and Perimenopause changes to our bodies, and to add to that I've been telling myself the following:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PWJIpxGWC4ynuJdCVCwdEjquyTK0UTAwBALMWHGpBNcaPfw7KDhqn73wogRkywHjpfcYCNnz4W5ganUDv8oMT6qHmzOIM66xeLKZlCUPPnTp0EyYNtNwgareCSGbmXzHvqwOgZ8nFltqU8UL9PdUfwIIOWa5d7QkCHR3lyLibwWlFkMfJcGjugTL3A/s2000/X%20Ways%20and%20Y%20Tips%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PWJIpxGWC4ynuJdCVCwdEjquyTK0UTAwBALMWHGpBNcaPfw7KDhqn73wogRkywHjpfcYCNnz4W5ganUDv8oMT6qHmzOIM66xeLKZlCUPPnTp0EyYNtNwgareCSGbmXzHvqwOgZ8nFltqU8UL9PdUfwIIOWa5d7QkCHR3lyLibwWlFkMfJcGjugTL3A/w256-h640/X%20Ways%20and%20Y%20Tips%20(1).jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">https://bit.ly/3ELo0lA</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">There are some great Facebook pages, Twitter and Instagram accounts offering more ideas along with community, humour and information. I've personally engaged with 'Perimenopost' run by Lorna Ives, and mindful that experiences are different for black and brown women*, I have engaged with Nina from Black Women in Menopause and Karen Arthur on the subject also.</span></div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Find out more about Lorna's work at www.perimenopost.com, follow Karen Arthur's "Menopause Whilst Black" (great on Insta) and Nina is best found on Twitter.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What are your thoughts and tips in this space? </div><div><br /></div><div>Stay Fabulous,</div><div>Denise.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>*I cannot comment on the experience of other minority groups such as the trans community hence the absence of any reference. Please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with me respectfully.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-76203803309778758302022-10-06T23:53:00.002+01:002022-10-10T21:03:29.165+01:00A peom<p>Happy National Poetry Day 2022.</p><p>The theme: Environment. This works... as we live in our bodies and need to create a safe mind-space for it, so here we are!</p><p>A poem by me. Enjoy 😊</p><p><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFOTu6TTxw/view">https://www.canva.com/design/DAFOTu6TTxw/view</a> for a clearer view,<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3qfCPoh6um5lnCeQ-lPQgaE36O_gE2G3av9C_gy0GDNshhekJ7aVlThktCOxcBs-Fmq2DQDbK1-FXFUUnoYvJrepaFoNGyU2rnQclpSSnx3c9pKjgLW73I4y-5_XRZnbMsi0_oPfgSIijSzydVKHkGTCWxGKyPkPteH3dSfxKvM65q_wHRIM2JqnUw/s2245/Dear%20Body,%20I%20thank%20you%20for%20all%20that%20you%20do%20(And%20yet%20there%20are%20times%20when%20I'm%20so%20mean%20to%20you)%20You%20wake%20me,%20and%20carry%20me%20All%20through%20every%20day%20(I'm%20sorry%20for%20the%20times%20when%20I%20throw%20crap%20your%20way)%20And%20w%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2245" data-original-width="1587" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3qfCPoh6um5lnCeQ-lPQgaE36O_gE2G3av9C_gy0GDNshhekJ7aVlThktCOxcBs-Fmq2DQDbK1-FXFUUnoYvJrepaFoNGyU2rnQclpSSnx3c9pKjgLW73I4y-5_XRZnbMsi0_oPfgSIijSzydVKHkGTCWxGKyPkPteH3dSfxKvM65q_wHRIM2JqnUw/w284-h402/Dear%20Body,%20I%20thank%20you%20for%20all%20that%20you%20do%20(And%20yet%20there%20are%20times%20when%20I'm%20so%20mean%20to%20you)%20You%20wake%20me,%20and%20carry%20me%20All%20through%20every%20day%20(I'm%20sorry%20for%20the%20times%20when%20I%20throw%20crap%20your%20way)%20And%20w%20(1).png" width="284" /></a></div><br /><p>Does it resonate for you?</p><p>What would your "Dear Body" poem say?</p><p>If poetry doesn't work for you, why not freefall write your thoughts or write a standard letter and post it to yourself.</p><p>All the Best, Dx</p><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">Sign-up for my n</span><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">ewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/11ac495e6edc/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-may-16088207</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div><div><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div><p></p>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-44493538325418968312022-05-30T19:29:00.003+01:002022-05-30T21:38:30.084+01:00Got out of my head!<h3 style="text-align: left;">Got into some art!</h3><p>I'm just going to start by saying this title has got me singing Billy Ocean, but that's not the point of this blog, so moving on😄...</p><p>Anyway. Last week was definitely one of ups and downs (not that I seem to have many that just pootle along), and so I had to be really minded of my mental health and wellbeing. I was struggling to get some reports written and the harder I tried to sit and focus the more frustrated I became.</p><p>Something I'm pretty good at is giving myself a talking to and taking the advice I'd give others both from a HR perspective and a body confidence one. There were various things I could do, but I realised that one of them was to take a break and do something creative. As fate (or faith) would have it I came across a community message about a mixed media workshop taking place and signed up for it straight away. I booked two tickets and encouraged my son to come with me.</p><p>It was great for both of us. He got out of his room. I got out of my head. For a few hours we created, chatted and competed (with ourselves piece by piece, rather than each other much), supported and encouraged by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_art_styler/?fbclid=IwAR14y_esQZChPvwJvXwy8gLzlx7LuK73DPJNP5kvIC0HqNMmR5ywztRCYH8" target="_blank">Yvonne</a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukc1FRtl_64L4l17sBGmgiwiwF4EEigDhTPTxaXIaPZl0gv73JEkLcu_qlXifT9gmv7N2_kbCKfIJiBYRHUAHlqj4yOxe_E7hadrd7iH4XdsL4Nmw-knicOotOaaK6UcqJG4Dz2cugHF6aGf7rRJKn0WUowTqtPJDxpXZbR6f7LFTz5WpxMYymrL0JA/s1350/20220530_185457.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1350" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukc1FRtl_64L4l17sBGmgiwiwF4EEigDhTPTxaXIaPZl0gv73JEkLcu_qlXifT9gmv7N2_kbCKfIJiBYRHUAHlqj4yOxe_E7hadrd7iH4XdsL4Nmw-knicOotOaaK6UcqJG4Dz2cugHF6aGf7rRJKn0WUowTqtPJDxpXZbR6f7LFTz5WpxMYymrL0JA/w200-h200/20220530_185457.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p>We created four pieces each, each of them unique. Each of them created simply working with what materials we given - from old magazines to scraps of material. I realised that each piece I'd created represented a different aspect of me, at the moment. And all of them are works in progress that could be tweaked a little more... or accepted just as they are, they don't need more and chances are I'd 'ruin' them if I kept going because art isn't meant to be perfect - whatever that is. Tweaked or left, no grand and sweeping changes are required as they are already special. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZ0Tm0urL3yg5pRtvg3zGmBAegDQptzpD4x5UUzgr_7cm3krPUbokrs1uDeDtsLla_OP6URtnSmehIg5Cl0ADYKcGxydEYKVQOG1Np4jjT__3JVa4Ot4mNz2DINc5LUaUhf_Zq7Pt7Ja7Fe71_HT7vliFd7NV9FSJNvPT_zZ_Bpw3i4xMKCMCxNqUbA/s4032/20220530_190257.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZ0Tm0urL3yg5pRtvg3zGmBAegDQptzpD4x5UUzgr_7cm3krPUbokrs1uDeDtsLla_OP6URtnSmehIg5Cl0ADYKcGxydEYKVQOG1Np4jjT__3JVa4Ot4mNz2DINc5LUaUhf_Zq7Pt7Ja7Fe71_HT7vliFd7NV9FSJNvPT_zZ_Bpw3i4xMKCMCxNqUbA/w200-h113/20220530_190257.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p>That's you/us too - Working with what we've got. Unique. Special. </p><p>So many lessons in just two hours including:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Movement is good</li><li>Breathing and just sitting still (with yourself) for a bit is also good</li><li>Company is good</li><li>Art is good</li><li>Abandon is good (in a safe space)</li><li>Learning new things or new ways is good</li><li>We have many parts to ourselves</li><li>And we are many things</li><li>Each part plays a part</li><li>Each part is valuable</li><li>Sometimes we've done enough</li><li>Sometimes things are left unfinished</li><li>Aiming for 'perfect' can lead to 'ruin'</li><li>Things get messy, messy is ok</li><li>Just make sure and wash your hands and clear up after</li><li>Starting and getting something down is better than not starting at all</li><li>We deserve to get out of our heads</li><li>It is healthy to get out of our physical spaces too</li><li>We are created to be creative</li><li>We can only work with what we've got</li><li>We are art ourselves - unique and special</li><li>We are enough</li></ul><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_PfDkf4gMWa-aRwSOBXQ-dOhqF9phfLLFj2bNKb8iq3erGYQ9DCBCdTEEQwsUdMotO-ZFrlPA2i9O_r8B_D4Whsz7LFmeHEDjLUD_dYre96dWZUD05xcHt_gfyAPxmvYoNSmPvIJHPKzovVvBoEV8Q_TU2yFbJAMJ_ylTSEMw0cb33iYxs--eBkdPg/s1277/20220530_190544.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1277" data-original-width="1198" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_PfDkf4gMWa-aRwSOBXQ-dOhqF9phfLLFj2bNKb8iq3erGYQ9DCBCdTEEQwsUdMotO-ZFrlPA2i9O_r8B_D4Whsz7LFmeHEDjLUD_dYre96dWZUD05xcHt_gfyAPxmvYoNSmPvIJHPKzovVvBoEV8Q_TU2yFbJAMJ_ylTSEMw0cb33iYxs--eBkdPg/w188-h200/20220530_190544.jpg" width="188" /></a></div><br /><p>So, do whatever works for you. For some people it's exercise, for others getting into nature and for others it's about rustling something up in the kitchen or their sewing room. Different things will work at different times. And sometimes, doing nothing is the best thing. Reflect. Repeat what works. Even revisit what didn't work this time. Enjoy.</p><p>I wish you well, Denise.</p><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">Sign-up for my n</span><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">ewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/11ac495e6edc/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-may-16088207</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div><div><br /></div><p>PS - I made progress on one report today and one deadline was eased so I'm defo more confident I'll get it done well now. Phew!</p><p>PPS - go follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_art_styler/?fbclid=IwAR14y_esQZChPvwJvXwy8gLzlx7LuK73DPJNP5kvIC0HqNMmR5ywztRCYH8" target="_blank">Yvonne on Insta.</a></p>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-72965366063011569722022-05-02T20:43:00.007+01:002022-05-02T22:15:47.168+01:00In the rear-view - April reflections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq--dkhf_FacDlxCVqoOAoJwXhRcD_wrj_hDSIH0rhb7tMA6z6zGtWO_afIjbc3INnYzMOw56lwl9Ufz72GR6kxPzF_NsTP8VWs4h_J-5BXY4406MAyhVSMchnePrmHeqL_Tujeeur62CUspXU870vTUnE4n1ZtblBYulEqjCo2YR0K9p5upRUWQlVw/s4800/pexels-jeshootscom-451590.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3115" data-original-width="4800" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq--dkhf_FacDlxCVqoOAoJwXhRcD_wrj_hDSIH0rhb7tMA6z6zGtWO_afIjbc3INnYzMOw56lwl9Ufz72GR6kxPzF_NsTP8VWs4h_J-5BXY4406MAyhVSMchnePrmHeqL_Tujeeur62CUspXU870vTUnE4n1ZtblBYulEqjCo2YR0K9p5upRUWQlVw/w200-h130/pexels-jeshootscom-451590.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m on my 4th <a href="https://mailchi.mp/e30d3770d17a/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-april-15919495?e=[UNIQID]" target="_blank">newsletter</a> and one of the regular sections has been “In the Rear View” where I look at what’s been going on in the BC space or for me in the previous month...</span></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a3c7c0d8-7fff-bb5a-a729-2a625c374691"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">...So far, I’ve not been stuck for points to reflect on and this month is no different in many ways. However, this month </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">a couple of reflections may be quite triggering, so to give people more a choice to engage I'm sharing them as a blog. The two hot topics of April have been the adding of calories to menus, and talk of skinning shaming following a post by Matt Lucas. So below, I share a few reflections. In addition, I‘m really pleased to say that I’ve been working on a few other related activities, that have been much more positive.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Calories on Menus <span style="font-size: large;">📑</span></span></span></li></ul><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The hot topic in the BI space at the moment is that as of last month restaurants with over 250 outlets have to show calories on their menus. There is no middle-of-the-road on this one for me (which is rare), and I find the decision absolute baloney - it's so damn lazy and lacking in foresight. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Luckily, people like Hope Virgo have shared ways around it such as eating at small, independent local places and asking others to read menus to you. Like the BMI, this is not really a medically inspired intervention - it stigmatises food, takes the joy out of eating out, hampers progression from eating disorders (ED’s), and doesn’t address the myriad of reasons why people are (fat aka) in higher weight bodies. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Perhaps my biggest issue though is that calories don’t equal healthy, any more than thinness does. Calories do not tell us the actual nutritional value of food and can be misleading in this context. And there's more if we start to consider what 'healthy' means, defined by who, too! Let's just say we should all remember good mental health and happiness are indicators of health; and that health is broad, for example, links to socio-economic status.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As you’ll know I’m not anti-dieter and recognise the many reasons people choose to diet, but I am anti-diet industry misrepresentations and manipulation. I’m not the expert on this, but please check out the numerous news articles on the subject and follow those such as Hope and the FatDoctor for their perspectives on social media, because the views from Dr. Hillary Jones just ain’t the ones.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The shame of 'Skinny-Shaming' <span style="font-size: large;">🗫</span></span></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Comments made to Matt Lucas have (re)started the conversation around so call skinny-shaming. The last time it was a hot topic in my brain was the backlash to Megan Trainer's (still catchy) "All about the Base". Body shaming is never ok. Making unsolicited comments on another person's body, even if you think you are being positive, is rarely a good idea (ask if you need me to expand) and you even need to tread very carefully responding to a person's ask of your opinion.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's be serious though, skinny shaming - whilst as painful for an individual as any form of body shaming - just isn’t as broad and deep a structural societal issue as fatphobia. (Please be clear I am not saying it isn’t an issue - I know you have to shop special as size 4 as well as at anything over an 18). </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In reality, and to be clear, ANY & ALL BODY SHAMING NEEDS TO GO IN THE BIN. Any body commentary is a risk when said/ heard directly or indirectly. Instead, think about complimenting a person for something else. Say nothing. Talk about how something makes a person feel. Point out the positive. Seek to understand their negative thinking or need for validation. Just try something different, be different - there are enough body image messages already.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Other stuff <span style="font-size: large;">📰</span></span></span></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the last month, 'Damson Belle' put their toe back in the image consulting pool and I’ve got back to doing colour analysis. I’ve also delivered an updated Body Happy Kids (BHK) workshop and been developing a Body Confidence (BC) journal.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Doing <b>colour analysis</b> is such a joy giver and bringer - I'm very happy to say my client was very happy. I'm looking forward to doing a style session soon, but I will be applying more of a BC approach to it.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Doing <b>BHK workshops</b> underpins the work I do with young adults and adults. Issues later in life are often a result of unresolved childhood challenges and narratives, so being part of an organisation that starts the conversation early is so important to me.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As for the <b>Body Confidence journal</b> - I am working with a few people to get it right including two coaches and a Doctor, as well as my designer the superb Ces Loftus. I’m just putting it out there in the hope it gives me a nudge, but that’s all I can say on it for now.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>---</span></div><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Phew, it’s been a deep and busy month!</span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope all is well with you!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As for me, I better finish the actual newsletter!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take care, Dx</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">Sign-up for my n</span><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">ewsletter: </span><a href="https://mailchi.mp/e30d3770d17a/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-april-15919495?e=[UNIQID]">Body Confidence Cards Newsletter - April 2022 (mailchi.mp)</a></div><div><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div></div></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></p></span>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-12095170412281995592022-04-09T17:31:00.004+01:002022-05-30T19:20:22.031+01:00Thoughts from a fall!<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And other issues...</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How often do you take the workings of your body for granted? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">I suspect many of us take the things we are able to do for granted, such is </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the focus on looking and feeling good in society. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">As I prepared my newsletter, I reflected on last month during which I had </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">not one </span><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">but three reminders to be ‘grateful’* for living largely pain free in </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">a body that </span><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">doesn't need society to make reasonable adjustments - </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">especially as it, and many </span><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">of us, are oblivious to what adjustments truly</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">need to be made. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">The first was that my boy was in pain with a knee condition (he’ll be fine),</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">and secondly I had a sore leg and hip (I am fine). </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGbOAwzwobEGf1qEfPIn4FaYpfyKdb04JqWAbhXDcXkJIIW4bU7yhyUbRuC2-1sn3zpoLw3WmpUk5o8V55PPUgBHgs-54nQrIkRLxKg4Muu6x3nDbdJodp1kfQHu7LtJenCyftLD2KKgQ1DTJ6rQ67RUGrseq46y__KgCBU4QNfpokWDQ2Z08pxZwqQ/s2896/20220402_180101.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2896" data-original-width="2896" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGbOAwzwobEGf1qEfPIn4FaYpfyKdb04JqWAbhXDcXkJIIW4bU7yhyUbRuC2-1sn3zpoLw3WmpUk5o8V55PPUgBHgs-54nQrIkRLxKg4Muu6x3nDbdJodp1kfQHu7LtJenCyftLD2KKgQ1DTJ6rQ67RUGrseq46y__KgCBU4QNfpokWDQ2Z08pxZwqQ/w200-h200/20220402_180101.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Both may cause long-term niggles... O’s issue is manageable but not funny, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">mine was avoidable-ish and had a tinge of the comedic about it. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Yes, folks, I took a cartoon style tumble into mud on a walk during <a href="https://thekateoutdoors.uk/a-pause-outdoors/?fbclid=IwAR2fl7VzFPNMauRDd0Y1Id6K9d3XgekaEVoEJoiW71_5ijgY42aV2CPgp_o" style="text-decoration-line: none; white-space: normal;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A pause outdoors – TheKateOutdoors</span></a>. Mud - 1. Ego - 0. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">In my case, I am glad I can laugh about it and glad for the reminder to </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">appreciate </span><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">the home I am/we are.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">The third reminder however was a much bigger one, and will require </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">major adjustments for a loved one. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">All I'll add is please don't ignore health warning signs, especially you men. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre;">If, and when, your body talks folks... Please, listen. </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Denise x</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">(*Note: I have tried not to be ableist in this piece, but welcome feedback <br /></span><span style="color: black; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">on how it might be not</span><span style="white-space: pre;"> so in the future if any of this was insensitive)</span></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yUAmns7-4T_47rz46PHH_hFc6JcTlRHlpD_7N0pGRAgaGnoMJUzkWGwdNxRW9HRdXJ1UdblcdziUvyiOmKJp8_E-NYngJPZ4xcjEq_6i4i7lyNeUSqQ_GUrgdF5R6YvOLuNdNfxqQn6ZcVdvP0Zq-QYgdM3W6o0_8RLj6xMRMECpbF1f6HPmPW_qLg/s1080/Do!.png" style="margin-left: 1em; 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font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://mailchi.mp/326e3cf1bb38/body-confidence-cards-newsletter-february-2022" id="LPlnk658057" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">https://mailchi.mp/326e3cf1bb38/<span class="mark05xnvt5z8" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">body</span>-<span class="mark38lrcfmn9" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">confidence</span>-<span class="mark4l2yy5d2j" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">cards</span>-<span class="marku807jmit7" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">newsletter</span>-february-2022</a></div><div><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div></div></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-46739877710466042802022-02-11T22:25:00.007+00:002022-02-11T22:40:52.048+00:00It's Encanto's diversity for me...<h3 style="text-align: left;">...Beyond (not) talking about Bruno!</h3><div><br /></div><div>I finally saw Encanto, woo hoo!<br /><div><br /></div><div>Lots of talk about Luisa, and rightly so but there's more - there's... </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>afro (as well as straight) hair, </li><li>different skin tones</li><li>Isabela's joy of breaking away from being supposedly 'perfect', and</li><li>the star - Mirabel - wears glasses but isn't quirky or geeky (quirky and geeky is good, just challenging the stereotype) <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/trending-globally/disney-film-makes-girls-glasses-wearing-heroine-wish-come-true-7761290/">Encanto ticks another box. Disney film makes girl’s glasses-wearing heroine wish come true | Trending News,The Indian Express</a></li></ul></div><div>(in alphabetical order, no favouritism here!)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9ve1BcfmotClrDzzyPLal5IW8_Lf4ZzpN1r_MqFB3UL08y-X71Cv0E-3S6waRNgsseCrMpvdQqcB72vpHU3kvkpbFWQSA3cMmpwX7oFwFb1oXUuE3iIQKu-jl0henxm01Dd9rSABaGF6KNA0EJbe73UBUb-wyHsBiGOuI08ENNUhZFCxVv4FHd0BzWw=s750" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9ve1BcfmotClrDzzyPLal5IW8_Lf4ZzpN1r_MqFB3UL08y-X71Cv0E-3S6waRNgsseCrMpvdQqcB72vpHU3kvkpbFWQSA3cMmpwX7oFwFb1oXUuE3iIQKu-jl0henxm01Dd9rSABaGF6KNA0EJbe73UBUb-wyHsBiGOuI08ENNUhZFCxVv4FHd0BzWw=w200-h200" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div>Luisa is the - some-might-say - surprising star of the film for her strength and size, combined with her expressions of vulnerability. She is not your typical Disney female, and yet it is her (less available) merchandise that is apparently sought after.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am so here for it!<br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /><br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />And I have another reason for loving it - my brand journey started with my own Mirabelle (spelt differently) who, like me, has the butterfly as a symbol. <br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /><br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />However, I can't talk about Disney movies without at least a mention of the issues surrounding them, such as the battle there was for the Luisa we have, stereotypical princesses and 'he'roes, why the name Bruno?* (unless just for the song!) and the latest controversy being the Snow White remake.<br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /><br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />"Why does it matter?" you might ask, well... because stereotypes are limiting, the slim/pretty = healthy/good narrative is subtly divisive and damaging, and frankly representation matters. (Next up I look forward to black characters who remain human for a whole Disney movie, but I'll accept their progress and hang on to Wakanda!)</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfvPPOx4gDnW8jKgeOlcnV3Xi0apMmJo_szJUrmn4gWhd6NzkFodASxlIzUgBeab4N1MBa5HVvt-1eqkfVJmKWdJh7Db-w979fwrFz3jx_3kVDoTPcRMQqyKXDvnx19DspTaD6Fbn0-GoFfRsBBmCt9CiRFPTSLvqS-wSOpqwzwJlAeUnfkXi6r0jEGw" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfvPPOx4gDnW8jKgeOlcnV3Xi0apMmJo_szJUrmn4gWhd6NzkFodASxlIzUgBeab4N1MBa5HVvt-1eqkfVJmKWdJh7Db-w979fwrFz3jx_3kVDoTPcRMQqyKXDvnx19DspTaD6Fbn0-GoFfRsBBmCt9CiRFPTSLvqS-wSOpqwzwJlAeUnfkXi6r0jEGw" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://edernet.org/2022/01/25/2-year-old-girl-reacts-to-looking-like-mirabel-from-encanto/">2-Year-Old Girl Reacts To Looking Like Mirabel From 'Encanto' - Edernet.org</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There's lots more on this through Body Happy Kids, who I deliver training with, by the way - but, for now lets just go with the positive shift our love of Luisa brings.<br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /><br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />And before I go here's a few other kids shows/films I think deserve a shout-out (though they're not without some challenges also)<br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /><br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />- Brave: Merida the character was described as a 'tomboy' and proposed changes to her in merchandising, such as shrinking her waist size, sparked debate and were knocked back.</div><div>- Sing: showing talent comes in all shapes and sizes. (I need to see Sing2 soon)<br aria-hidden="true" dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" />- Trollhunters: Jim Lake isn't the school star but turns hero and another show hero Toby, and his Grandma, are in higher weight bodies and love interests.</div><div>Wreck It Ralf: for it's anti-Princess and the big guy himself</div><div>- Zootropolis: breaks stereotype about what a petite person (character) can do and who the baddie can be.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirw4ehBxdF2I71FEmvaaXmhtj4AsCm_EnpFxgYqEqBNAzcRfkRSUsPZiTpOOxpQpDsPeH9JF0QuGhC-FAbf4v2I0Fel4xyi-hH4DJkcacaCa1SfJDPZtT4AMJOqs487GkBH1SEe0QwoZbUKOI_5vqwqCC_drNfZYTfupNha1VNbgBfrequbsmu_cK98w=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirw4ehBxdF2I71FEmvaaXmhtj4AsCm_EnpFxgYqEqBNAzcRfkRSUsPZiTpOOxpQpDsPeH9JF0QuGhC-FAbf4v2I0Fel4xyi-hH4DJkcacaCa1SfJDPZtT4AMJOqs487GkBH1SEe0QwoZbUKOI_5vqwqCC_drNfZYTfupNha1VNbgBfrequbsmu_cK98w=w200-h113" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div>What kid films would you shout out for body positive messages (where the baddie is fat and/scarred and the star isn't a stereotype of attractive for example)?</div><div><br /></div><div>If you haven't seen Encanto or any of the above movies yet but now intend to, enjoy!</div><div>Denise x</div><div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-small;">*feel free to ask me more!</span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; 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border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">https://mailchi.mp/326e3cf1bb38/<span class="mark05xnvt5z8" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">body</span>-<span class="mark38lrcfmn9" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">confidence</span>-<span class="mark4l2yy5d2j" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">cards</span>-<span class="marku807jmit7" color="inherit" data-markjs="true" data-ogab="" data-ogac="" data-ogsb="" data-ogsc="" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">newsletter</span>-february-2022</a></div><div><div>I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div>T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</span></div><div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br aria-hidden="true" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /></div></div></div><div><div dir="auto" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div></div></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-62647994699001520492022-01-27T18:06:00.002+00:002022-01-27T21:53:45.748+00:00The Workplace is no place for Body Shaming...<h3 style="text-align: left;">There is no place for body shaming.</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">January is always a frustrating time for me with the narrow talk of 'New Year, New You' (<a href="https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2014/12/say-no-to-new-year-new-you.html">https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2014/12/say-no-to-new-year-new-you.html</a>), ill-considered resolutions around exercise regimes (not bad in itself but...), and back to work chat about losing weight post-Christmas. I recognise there is a marketing benefit to this time for many including image consultants, and it's a relevant perspective to think of the fresh and new. I however tend to let the bandwagon pass me by, and this year that's been even more pointed for me as I've openly talked about needing to ease into 2022 proper. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And yet, here we are because I just needed to put down on 'paper' my thoughts on some public, workplace body shaming that's just happened, and on the response to it. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That it happens at all is bad. That it happened in Parliament is, somehow, especially infuriating - they're meant to be a pinnacle, no?! That some people have responded with a 'so what' attitude and judgment reinforcing the negative (grrr) is sad. That it was passed off as acceptable banter because of the relationship between the belittler and the belitted is why I'm screaming... It is not ok, irrespective. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">None of it is ok. At all. (As I've referred to before: <a href="https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2020/05/more-than-month-of-memes.html">https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2020/05/more-than-month-of-memes.html</a>) </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But, sadly, it is deemed so. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's face it - body shaming happens in the street, in restaurants, in media, in entertainment (one for another day) and in the office. It happens within family and friendship groups. It happens in brash, and subtle ways. With an openness that would not be tolerated for other groups. And so it is too often passed off as banter, without a care for the person it is directed at. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What's 'good' in this instance is that it was recognised and called out by many. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Maybe the tide is turning. Maybe someone will think twice about doing it. Maybe it can (re)start the conversation. And so here I am, and with an offer. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are plenty of qualified people and expert organisations who are on this issue, but I've been talking about the issue of body image and weight stigma in the context of the workplace in my HR and diversity roles for a bit now so this is my zone. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Workplaces should not be toxic. Our colleagues should not be subjected to harm. And make no mistake body shaming is damaging to the person and also to the workplace - it's culture, reputation and the bottom line.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My offer is therefore to help in this space... Are you someone who wants to know how to navigate or raise this issue at work - a manager or HR professional, coach or wellbeing lead? I can work with you to tackle this form of workplace bullying, (and yes, that's what it is) so please do get in touch. It doesn't have to be a battle. It isn't an issue that stands alone. So let's challenge this, as many are now doing with the aforementioned January narratives and, say goodbye to this shaming being acceptable anywhere. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Like I said, this is a workplace issue - Parliament is a place of work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/prime-minister-slammed-after-fat-shaming-mp-ian-blackford-during-pmqs/ar-AATaTcC?ocid=msedgntp">Prime Minister slammed after ‘fat shaming’ MP Ian Blackford during PMQs (msn.com)</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thanks for coming to my TedTalk!!!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Look after yourself and be kind to others.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Denise x</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">PS - responding by fat shaming the shamer (who will themselves be reflecting what society deems acceptable) is not the way to go, it is damaging and reinforcing. A persons performance should not be conflated with their body. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><br /><p><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></p></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-81160340515130680232021-03-22T23:11:00.005+00:002021-12-10T17:42:15.264+00:0010 Reasons why Body Confidence is like Water!<h3 style="text-align: left;"> World Water Day</h3><p>World water day is a reminder to us all to appreciate the gift of water - a precious natural commodity, just as we are! We should not take water for granted and it really is a first-world privilege for many of us. For others, it does not come so easy.</p><p>Today, reminded me to be thankful. Then I started thinking! And then linking... and here we are:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--D6SLH4ejks/YFki_ULiymI/AAAAAAAABEM/xeHY0qD3xEMNugNgBXyrMS5FAyK3DvyQgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2000/20210322_225716_0000.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="800" height="893" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--D6SLH4ejks/YFki_ULiymI/AAAAAAAABEM/xeHY0qD3xEMNugNgBXyrMS5FAyK3DvyQgCNcBGAsYHQ/w358-h893/20210322_225716_0000.png" width="358" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Does any of this resonate for you?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Keep it flowing,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Denise x</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span></div></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-41531258756376896922021-02-28T22:01:00.002+00:002021-04-05T19:29:16.745+01:00Hair today, Gone tomorrow?<h3 style="text-align: left;">No hair? No fear?</h3>
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I've seen several posts, and had some conversations, about the first thing people will do after lockdown ends (again, this time, for a time?). For me, second only to seeing my family and friends is a trip to the hairdressers.<br />
<br />
It may seem vain but my hair is not just about a look for me - it's a real marker of health and wellbeing. <br />
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Some years ago after a particularly stressful time, my hair started falling out in clumps. And all these years later, I still have a notable, impacting bald patch. Stress is still a factor. I suspect a likely lack of vitamin D will play its part and for others, there will be other reasons too. It is an annoyance and a frustration because I can't just do what I want with my hair. It's bigger than my personal perspective too because society prizes hair... and lots of it. Again, it's often that hair is linked to health as well as to society's narrative of beauty. Don't believe me... just look at TV ads and magazines! <div><br /></div><div>H for Hidden in the Body Confidence Card deck was inspired by this thinking. Hairloss is something we try to hide, are encouraged to. Something I've tried to deny and ignore.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm fortunate that I've had some great stylists over the years, and these days wigs and weaves are not exactly news, so it's by no means all doom and drama for me. I'm grateful for the headwear I've had during the lockdown. And I'm bolder and more open about my bald patch now anyway. However, that trip to the hairdressers will be my moment of truth... will I have lost more hair through anxiety or will less toxicity (due to less travel) and more home cooking turn the tide? Who knows!<br />
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What I do know is that after this lockdown, much like the previous ones, many of us will be seeking a treat(ment) that will appear to be pure pampering but will be so much more. <div><br /></div><div>What, if anything, is it going to be for you? - A manicure, facial, massage, body scrub, replacing skincare, or treating yourself to a new lippy? Whatever your answer, why and what can you do now while you wait are really the questions! </div><div><br /></div><div>If there's an underlying reason for your treats, don't lose sight of what it is and do what you can not to let it slide too far. It's important we note our health markers and do what we can to maintain our bodies and minds. Eat happy. Keep moving. Sleep well. Home spa. Think positive!</div><div><br /></div><div>However, just a little reminder - if what you're thinking of doing is to suit a narrow societal narrative, think twice. We're still in a pandemic, health is wealth and other people's opinions about your body are just that - their opinions.<br />
<br />
See you on the other side, where it'll be nice to have less health-fear even if it is with less hair in my case!<br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: italic; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Stay well,</i></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span></div></div><div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span> </div></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-84546572995429318432020-12-31T23:11:00.005+00:002021-01-01T23:20:41.453+00:002020 BC - Reflections<h3 style="text-align: left;">Body Confidence 2020 - My reflections</h3><div><br /></div><div>Well, what a year it's been. Reflecting over the last 12 months has made me both smile and shudder over how my Body Confidence (Cards) journey has been, especially in the context of the wider BC stories that have been playing out through this challenging year.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>January</b> got off to a great start as I attended the Anti-Diet RiotFest and it continued positively (despite the storms - remember them?) in <b>February</b> with my Q&A sessions after the brilliant Helen of Troy play. </div><div><br /></div><div>And then came 'you know what'.</div><div><br /></div><div>Along with being galvanised to get active with Joe Wicks in <b>March</b>, the sound of birds and lots of acts of kindness, we were bombarded with messages about how we shouldn't eat too much (shudder 1) despite the fact that we were locked in our homes and the comfort that food legit brings in such times. I was well aware of the impact of the memes and negative messaging, especially in possibly triggering disordered eating and so my "say no" narrative started.</div><div><br /></div><div>Like many, I tried to make the most of lockdown and in <b>April</b> I pushed myself to do a few videos and started a card related Instagram account (@BodyConfidenceCards_db). It was good to do something to challenge the narrative (shudder 2) that was ramping up, no thanks for Boris Johnson, around weight and covid-19. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>May</b> was dark in many ways but a personal positive was being featured on Charlotte Markay's list of social media accounts to follow in Psychology Today.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OgiOlUhjd3Q/X--pYhzNq0I/AAAAAAAABC0/eG0IyzsoMUoPVo2GGh9y9pefwof-OdtOwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20210101_225015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OgiOlUhjd3Q/X--pYhzNq0I/AAAAAAAABC0/eG0IyzsoMUoPVo2GGh9y9pefwof-OdtOwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20210101_225015.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In Summer I made the most of the weather we were blessed with but still found time to do a few bits - In <b>June</b>, I joined the You@Yours body confidence challenge. In <b>July</b>, I had a massive response to a blog on nude shoes, and in <b>August</b> I was inspired by a package I received to get some merchandise to improve how the cards were presented. Sadly, a wider argument was also hovering around during the summer with the frankly crap idea about weighing children on their return to school (big shudder 4)</div><div><br /></div><div>Several months in the development, my website was finally launched in <b>September</b> but the real highlight of the month was that I experienced my first Body Happy Kids workshop. Beyond me, September also saw a Parliamentary discussion on Body Confidence.</div><div><br /></div><div>With <b>October</b> being Black History Month, and given the discussions around race in 2020 (shudder 5), I spent time considering on how the cards reflected blackness and started planning a second edition which resulted in a new deck in <b>November</b>. In October, as the weather changed and I needed a boost, I also let my faith into my body confidence space by expanding my A-Z thoughts, one a day, into a Christian companion which I was grateful to be able to share. with a friend</div><div><br /></div><div>An InstaLive with Merv of You@Yours (another first for me) wrapped up my Body Confidence year brilliantly. Sadly, this <b>December</b> we are also hearing about that an impact of the pandemic is an increase in cases of eating disorders (massive shudder 6). And so, as with the rest of the year I am mindful that what I do matters.</div><div><br /></div><div>And here we are. New Years Eve. A traditional time to reflect. </div><div><br /></div><div>In summary, I had a body confidence cards year worth smiling about, but many of my activities were a reaction to things that made me shudder. Next year, I hope to be more proactive and up my game. Starting tomorrow.</div><div><br /></div><div>New Years Day. A traditional time to plan! (But not the only time).</div><div><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Wishing you a healthy, happy, body confident 2021!</span></i></span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;" /><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;">F: Body Confidence Card Club</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-68793111818364197202020-10-30T12:38:00.002+00:002021-02-18T16:47:05.201+00:00Blackness and Body Image<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Body Confidence Cards HoMe(dition)!</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYJ2YH4QiNw/X5wIdlPVBzI/AAAAAAAABBw/RT4Cz09zZp4yXntgvnbCxNXigXIqldLzwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201030_122440.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYJ2YH4QiNw/X5wIdlPVBzI/AAAAAAAABBw/RT4Cz09zZp4yXntgvnbCxNXigXIqldLzwCNcBGAsYHQ/w200-h200/20201030_122440.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p>Whether you find value in awareness days and months, they certainly inspire discussion and sometimes reflection. October is the power house of awareness events for me - World Mental Health Day, Breast Cancer Awareness and Black History Month.</p><p>A focus on Breast Cancer was a big part of my journey to Body Confidence and Black History Month has been a massive focus for me in 2020 at work and with the cards. </p><p>One of the things I was keen on with the deck was that it be as diverse as possible, in terms of the design eg the font's readability, the images (given what images I could find/afford!) and the language. So, the original deck represented a broad range of people and left space for others to tell a story. Also, the 'Facilitator' (teacher) guide has a section on how to use the cards to amplify a diversity discussion, however...</p><p>...As I was reflecting through BHM, I started to consider what it would mean to do a High on Melanin (HoM)edition of the cards - not for BHM alone but beyond. I considered the challenges associated with blackness and image/body confidence that I and others experience everyday. Some experiences are universal but others are more pointed to the black experience.</p><p>What is different in the body image space is that black bodies have largely been considered: </p><p></p><ol><li>less valuable (eg in the US a black person was considered less than 1, 3/5th to be precise), </li><li>more resistant to mistreatment (beatings and brutality in general, historically: medical experiments on black women, currently: data on death in childbirth) and </li><li>less beautiful re our natural features - see the powerful video below.</li></ol><p>There is already much written on the subjects above and how blackness underpins issues like fatness<span style="color: red;">*</span>, the need for a "Crown Act" and how black women were the founders of the Body Positivity movement (which has now been highjacked into the mainstream), and I wanted to reflect some of this in the cards. <span style="color: red;">*</span>see Sabrina Strings: "Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia".</p><div>With this in mind, the HoMe(dition) features all black and brown bodies, shows different hair and skintones (though more could be done I know), has three different alphabet cards on our hair, lookism and the Western ideal and sets out to challenge a few stereotypes such as showing a softer side to black men. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once again, the exercise highlighted an issue with access to images (https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2020/06/nude-shoes-and-images.html), and I don't claim to have represented everyone, but I do hope the new deck starts a conversation about specific issues. </div><div><br /></div><div>The cards will be printed soon and I can't wait to hold the new deck and be part of the discussion beyond Black History Month 2020.</div><div>Message on SM or Email me at denise@thebodyconfidencecards.com to pre-order!</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">I see you!</span></i></span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;" /><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="clear: left; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">W: www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">I: bodyconfidencecards_db</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px;">T: @_BodyConfidence</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">F: Body Confidence Card Club</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jpZ23aMSCuw" width="320" youtube-src-id="jpZ23aMSCuw"></iframe></div><br /><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-73125453009604512082020-10-01T23:09:00.001+01:002021-12-10T17:43:29.579+00:00Hair, part one!<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Hair there? A poem - of sorts!<span> </span></span></h4><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Last month was #NationalAlopeciaMonth but I wasn't ready. Today, is #National PoetryDay. It's given me a nudge to share this - it's part of a bigger story and has been sitting on my phone for a bit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Here goes...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Could it be?<br />There's something coming through<br />
Where smooth and empty once was. <br />
No, don't begin to believe Denise.<br />
We've been here before.<br />
Hope.<br />
Belief.<br />
The not really promises.<br />
But the maybes 'this product will work'<br />
There'll be some growth<br />
There is some growth<br />
But, sigh. Oh no,<br />
Then and again, it was a brief, false hope<br />
No real change, not for long anyway <br />
Back undercover - a new wig or piece<br />
And then, a new place<br />
Heard a new maybe <br />
Not really a promise but a confident "you'll see"<br />
That where there once was liitle or no growth<br />
There might possibly be some<br />
Where there was nothing<br />
There might now be something<br />
Progress, could it be?<br />
Shoots, like stubble<br />
Not getting too excited, but a quiet yippee<br />
Some hair, my hair<br />
Covering where the bald patch used to be.<br />
It seems true, it seems real,<br />
Maybe. This time. Just maybe.<br />
Maybe it will grow<br />
Really grow<br />
Into a crown<br />
Recreate the beauty that society sees<br />
Hair<br />
We're beautiful with or without it right?<br />
But how most of us long to be, <br />with A full head of hair<br />
Flowing or big<br />
Eyelashes, eyebrows, hair - our own<br />
Not that it should matter, but it does<br />
Either way, we're beautiful<br />
Aren't we?<br />
It shouldn't define me.<br />
Whatever happens, hair today or none tomorrow<br />
I won't let it define me, I'll be. I am.<br />
Fine.</span></p><p><br /></p><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Hair all lost, hidden, all yours, I see you!</span></i></span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;" /><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline !important; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #727272; display: inline !important; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">www.bodyconfidencecards.com</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-70930874664410077322020-08-17T19:21:00.024+01:002021-04-30T20:52:57.230+01:00The Seven Stages of Body Confidence<h4 style="text-align: left;">Our bodies - the Home of a lifetime.</h4><p>In 2012, I published "Seven Stages of Style" (<a href="https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2012/06/seven-stages-of-style.html">https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2012/06/seven-stages-of-style.html</a>) and it remains one of my most read blogs to date. I've recently reflected on how this might apply to Body Image and so I've adapted it into the blog below!</p><p>According to Shakespeare in “As you like it”, there are several stages of 'man' – infant, schoolboy, lover, soldier, justice, pantaloons, and second childhood. </p><div class="MsoNormal">Here’s my take on how Shakespeare’s stages might relate to body image, not literally but as a seven-stage principle that we may work through. These stages are not solely about age in years! - you may skip some stages entirely, rattle through others, and some may merge.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here are some things to consider as you go through this:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">1. Warning: As I type this I'm sad at how much negativity is 'forced' on us at various stages, and you may be too reading this. However, at every stage, there is always an up-side so focus on and amplify that... and it ends well (see what I did there?!)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">2. Disclaimer: This is a personal opinion/reflection; not a scientific study. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Note: This is fairly general. I recognise that there are factors that aren't detailed here like race, disability, trauma, family history. I'd encourage you to think about that in case it helps your reflections. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Reminder: Your body is ALWAYS worthy... of care, at the very least. Take care.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Read '4' again and keep it in mind as you read on...<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><b><span style="color: purple;">Stage one – Infancy:</span></b></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzkYkOitKPU/Xzm45LlWyhI/AAAAAAAAA_8/5p7vK3tRGaoW4ldQG2p5WqkF78glb2h9wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1920/baby-1866621_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzkYkOitKPU/Xzm45LlWyhI/AAAAAAAAA_8/5p7vK3tRGaoW4ldQG2p5WqkF78glb2h9wCNcBGAsYHQ/w168-h112/baby-1866621_1920.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Image: Pixabay</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Technically this term covers up to the age of two. At this stage, it is unlikely that body image issues will show up in 'us' as the focus is on having our basic human needs met. However, those around us may already be describing and relating to us in ways that link to personal and societal perceptions based on our looks. This may in turn impact our parents and how they 'see' themselves and us. The current sad trend of showing an 'ugly' baby to get a shocked reaction is proof of this.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">🌞The bright side: People are generally nice to babies and toddlers. They themselves are usually focused on learning to walk and talk, and discover how their bodies work over how they look. We are also usually well shielded at this stage. And parents: (you) have a miracle to focus on!<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="color: purple;"><b>Stage two – Childhood:</b></span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DcMdj3Yb4BQ/T9nUdzYQYtI/AAAAAAAAAT8/_lrRTRdBtKI/s1600/Boy+in+school+uniform.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DcMdj3Yb4BQ/T9nUdzYQYtI/AAAAAAAAAT8/_lrRTRdBtKI/s200/Boy+in+school+uniform.jpg" width="69" /></a></div>And boom, here it starts. Whilst kids should be focused on play, friendship, learning, growth at this time, some studies suggest children as young as three are starting to think about their bodies, negatively. I'd suggest that school and family have a vital role to play at this stage, as social media and peer factors probably come into play more strongly later on. Having said that Molly Forbes points out that the 'baddie' in Disney films, for example, is portrayed as fat and/ ugly so managing what children watch, as well as the language they hear around them is important.<div><br /></div><div>And as if low self esteems and poor body image were not enough, evidence suggests that actual eating disorders are on the rise in this age group, though small mercies it's still not 'common': <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/news/mental-health/anorexia-younger-children-may-be-increasing/">https://www.nhs.uk/news/mental-health/anorexia-younger-children-may-be-increasing/</a><div><br /></div><div>As adults we mustn't start to perpetuate the negatives and that we actively challenge the stereotypes. We need to watch what we do to our kids, who we let in/influence them, and watch what we say and do around children. </div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How do you show up around the children around you?</i></div><div><br /></div><div>🌞The bright side: We can catch it early, and there is plenty around to help us navigate body image at this age. You can still (largely) influence and redirect children, eg chose the things to watch, what they are read. Most children will still be more interested in how their bodies work and are quite fearless and playful for much of childhood. Harness that. Damn it grown-ups - be childlike in this respect!<br /><div><br /><div>2016 - </div><div><a href="https://www.pacey.org.uk/news-and-views/news/archive/2016-news/august-2016/children-as-young-as-3-unhappy-with-their-bodies/">https://www.pacey.org.uk/news-and-views/news/archive/2016-news/august-2016/children-as-young-as-3-unhappy-with-their-bodies/</a><br /><div><a href="https://www.today.com/health/children-young-3-have-poor-body-image-talk-dieting-says-t102453">https://www.today.com/health/children-young-3-have-poor-body-image-talk-dieting-says-t102453</a></div><div>2019 - </div><div><a href="https://familydoctor.org/building-your-childs-body-image-and-self-esteem/">https://familydoctor.org/building-your-childs-body-image-and-self-esteem/</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUL9oLXMKNI/Xzm7EXH9J_I/AAAAAAAABAI/d4DdtQQPSkEHgHefMfPT4gp1YkvWiWgvACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/pexels-cottonbro-4835411.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUL9oLXMKNI/Xzm7EXH9J_I/AAAAAAAABAI/d4DdtQQPSkEHgHefMfPT4gp1YkvWiWgvACNcBGAsYHQ/w140-h210/pexels-cottonbro-4835411.jpg" width="140" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Image: Cottonbro, Pexels</span></div><div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="color: purple;"><b>Stage three – Our teenage years:</b></span></li></ul>By this stage, a young adult may have been carrying around body confidence issues for nearly a decade. If you know/remember, or have read, anything about the teen years you'll know this is a tough time to navigate for many reasons (and backed by science about a teenager's brain development). Social media and peer pressure, puberty, hormones will all play a part in amplifying body image issues even if these haven't been present before. Often, but not always, eating disorders rear up at this stage. In my experience (sadly) whilst bullying may have been an issue before now, teens can be pretty mean to each other, and it can be the worst time for bullying with the number one thing people will target inevitably being appearance. </div><div><br /></div><div>During the teen years, though, people often 'come into their own' - brain growth stabilises and how a person looks at 13 can change significantly by 19, along with their lifestyle moving through school to higher education or work. </div><div>(* remember the reminder)</div><div><br />🌞The bright side: This is perhaps the age where energy most goes into addressing body confidence issues, with targeted resources and PHSE a key (although not mandatory) part of the national curriculum. Also, in the teen years, there is access to social media - whilst it is often seen as part of the problem, SM gives you choice: you can choose/be directed to a wider range of bodies and views than can be presented in the mainstream media. </div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you're a teacher or someone who works with young people, you should check out this workshop</i>: <a href="https://www.freefromdiets.org/body-happy-kids-workshop">https://www.freefromdiets.org/body-happy-kids-workshop</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsOixix6PW4/T9nWLnztedI/AAAAAAAAAUE/zPcuMLA59rg/s1600/business+woman.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsOixix6PW4/T9nWLnztedI/AAAAAAAAAUE/zPcuMLA59rg/s1600/business+woman.jpg" /></a></div><ul><li><b><span style="color: purple;">Stage four – The (early) work years: </span></b></li></ul>Even here, body image &/ confidence plays a part, though by now we may have learned to mask it a bit. Again, there is evidence to suggest that society's stereotypes have an impact. Our looks such as facial features and weight affect our careers - what we go for, get, what we are paid and how we progress. If we have always had a challenging perception of ourselves, the chances are that these are deeply internalised by now and only serve to further hold us back/down. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, we probably have a more honed group of friends by now, more money, more choice,, and more voice (if we can find it and use it). The challenge is how we use the likely 'more' we have and how much of our 'rebellious teen spirit' we've held on to. </div><div><br /></div><div>🌞The bright side: All the 'more' mentioned above whereby we're at least faking it on our way to making it. Hopefully too, we're simply focused more on life itself than the body we're living that life in... </div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><i> What's the bright side of this stage in your opinion?</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/experts/legal/lookism-forgotten-workplace-inequality">https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/experts/legal/lookism-forgotten-workplace-inequality</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomaspremuzic/2019/07/17/its-time-to-expose-the-attractiveness-bias-at-work/#bcb2ac313248">https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomaspremuzic/2019/07/17/its-time-to-expose-the-attractiveness-bias-at-work/#bcb2ac313248</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://abovethelaw.com/2017/04/pretty-people-always-win-beauty-bias-in-the-workplace/">https://abovethelaw.com/2017/04/pretty-people-always-win-beauty-bias-in-the-workplace/</a></div><div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="color: purple;"><b>Stage five – Settled lifestyle time:</b></span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JslchzgcrlI/T9nY_iELGMI/AAAAAAAAAUU/Fiz87XiFEZA/s1600/man+in+tshirt+1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JslchzgcrlI/T9nY_iELGMI/AAAAAAAAAUU/Fiz87XiFEZA/s1600/man+in+tshirt+1.jpg" /></a></div>In my experience, we are a little less focused on our own bodies now – maybe because as partners or parents, we focus more on how others (eg our kids) feel rather than ourselves. It may also be a time when we are more sidetracked by practicalities like bills, home, and work. This doesn't mean that our body image issues have gone, that they no longer have an impact on us... just that they are less likely to be front stage.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, based on a number of conversations, I also think this is the time when past/latent issues are most likely to creep up. It's possibly when we get frustrated about what we settled for... the 'midlife crisis' stage. We've time to think, ruminate, ask 'what if' and 'why'. Like our teen years, we can go for the 'easy target' - ourselves and what we look like (compared to what we think we should/could look like). It can also be when others start 'preaching' about their changes and try to dictate what you should do too, often under the guise of advice, care, help, concern. </div><div><b>TIP</b>: Do you. You are not a teenager anymore!</div><div><br /></div><div>🌞The bright side: If you're in the settled phase of your life, we can turn that rumination into reflection - now might be the time to reflect, discuss body image with less fear/need/care, embrace who you, get on the road towards better self-care/self-esteem, challenge what you've held that is no longer serving you. Just a thought!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t8O3X-Zdcs/Xzm-Bav-loI/AAAAAAAABAU/7Hb_AlXzIdAlhQgMPsXAkcifjcGV0JZYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/pexels-marcus-aurelius-4063537%2Bcropped.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1729" data-original-width="2048" height="142" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t8O3X-Zdcs/Xzm-Bav-loI/AAAAAAAABAU/7Hb_AlXzIdAlhQgMPsXAkcifjcGV0JZYQCNcBGAsYHQ/w168-h142/pexels-marcus-aurelius-4063537%2Bcropped.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Image: Marcus Aurelius, Pexels</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="color: purple;"><b>Stage six – Body Confidence Maturity?</b></span></li></ul>It's not just about what we do now, it's why we do it. It's the time when we are hopefully freer-thinking, and not just doing things because work, society, partner, parent, other is telling us what to think, feel, do about/with our bodies. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is the one where we peak, wherever that means or needs to be for us. Not everyone will need/get to self-love, for example, body appreciation may be the place that represents our maturity. As I said at the beginning, our bodies have always been worthy. Maturity is when we embrace that. And remember, this 'maturity' is not purely about age... if it was, this is also the stage I'd most likely have to be talking about peri/menopause. (But that's for another time!)</div><div><br /></div><div>🌞The bright side - reaching and maintaining a fairly even keel at this stage is the brightest of the bright sides. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="color: purple;"><b>Stage seven – Old age/second childhood:</b></span></li></ul>Oh to reach this stage - I'd say if you've come 'this' far I hope you're able to embrace your body for all it has done and still does despite what you may have done to it over the years. Better yet, perhaps you're more than grateful and a total 'Baddie'+!* It's brilliant to see older bodies increasingly celebrated in the media. This stage doesn't mean that long-held body issues have all gone, but it is likely your perspective/focus has changed. </div><div><br /></div><div>🌞The bright side: See above. </div><div><br /></div><div>*Be more Baddie! <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baddiewinkle">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baddiewinkle</a></div><div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRx1lX8RrTM/XzmwdYLuSSI/AAAAAAAAA_w/ED8THhCU1_g_wOgPTN2aq10egLCTlJesgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1200/advanced%2Bstyle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="263" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRx1lX8RrTM/XzmwdYLuSSI/AAAAAAAAA_w/ED8THhCU1_g_wOgPTN2aq10egLCTlJesgCNcBGAsYHQ/w175-h263/advanced%2Bstyle.jpg" width="175" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Image from 'Advanced Style' google search</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><b>So does this resonate or ring true for you (or someone you know), what stage are you at, and... </b><b>Are you happy there?<span style="color: red;">*</span></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div><div><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Wherever you are, I see you!</span></i></span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;" /><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span face="arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /><div style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div><div><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">*</span><span style="color: #134f5c;">Please let my cards help you through the stages. www.bodyconfidencecards.com </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Dx</span></b></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-13670443055878768732020-07-30T20:05:00.003+01:002020-07-30T22:00:00.627+01:00A lighthouse for small ships?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YkDBsKQigMw/XyM0tJhHB-I/AAAAAAAAA_Y/5ys4EJSzorc9kiHzBDpM6IwzzJf3QmFfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1920/Worst%2Blonliness%2B-%2Blighthouse-2396672_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1281" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YkDBsKQigMw/XyM0tJhHB-I/AAAAAAAAA_Y/5ys4EJSzorc9kiHzBDpM6IwzzJf3QmFfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Worst%2Blonliness%2B-%2Blighthouse-2396672_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Making my ordinary story count.</h3><div><br /></div><div>There are some incredible and high profile (deservedly so) people in the Body Confidence space, and they all seem to have a big story. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Lately, I've been a feeling a bit challenged, not about body confidence issues themselves (this time *wink*), but about my place in this space. As well as the cards, I've got a few other ideas but I've been hesitating about all of it really. Hesitating to really and boldly promote my cards. Hesitating to get to the other ideas. Hesitating to even finish my near complete website.</div><div><br /></div><div>That Marianne Williamson quote - Imposter Syndrome - Humility - Not my place? </div><div><br /></div><div>Whatever it is it's not great in itself or in role modelling terms! It's not in keeping with what I'd tell others to do, and it's possibly doing a disservice to someone my offer could be useful to. </div><div><br /></div><div>I recently shared an image that included the phrase "I appreciate my averageness..." it was my way of calling out my own thinking, and yet even in doing that, the idea for what is now this blog was destined to remain just an idea.</div><div><br /></div><div>And then: a conversation with my cousin, a comment I made which reminded me of this video (<a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story/transcript?language=en" target="_blank">https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story/transcript?language=en</a>) and a song that popped into my head - they all nudged me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I could ramble on about the detail of all the elements above but I'll skip that and share that I've distilled my thoughts into this.... </div><div><br /></div><div>My USP is that, whilst I don't have a headline story, I do have lots of relevant stories. We all do. My small, fairly average, ordinary stories are my platform and I'm here to share them in order to help. </div><div><br /></div><div>I believe I am representative of loads of women, women who feel and are pretty ordinary. As if ordinary is a bad thing. Many (if not most/all) of whom are harbouring small and/ underlying body image issues as they go about ordinary lives. Many of whom compare themselves to the big story owners and play down the value of their own narrative, views and gifts.</div><div><br /></div><div>My ordinary is my story, and rather than a hindrance to being in the Body Confidence space, I'm starting to see and appreciate how my average may actually be a lighthouse to others. Because not all body image issues roar and rule, many just whisper and niggle. And whilst it's easy to let the low vibration remain, it doesn't mean it should.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, over the next few months, I'm going to be working on how I can show up and shine up for those who feel that they don't fit into the 'big story' space either.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">I see you!</span></i></span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.2px;"> </span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /><div style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" style="clear: left; color: #727272; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><br style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><br /></div>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-13025628261033199142020-06-28T15:16:00.001+01:002021-12-10T17:40:49.053+00:00Nude shoes and Images...<h3>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Urm, How do I start this one?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Well, the title came pretty easily but the intro for this post didn't. In fact, writing this post in a succinct/safe/sensitive/sensible way isn't coming easily. But here we go...</span></span><br />
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Before I begin - a question:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Q: When you read "nude shoes" in the title, what first came to mind?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you've no immediate answer or you're worried it's a trick question - do an internet search on "nude shoes" and hold that thought for a paragraph.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see this post is about a couple of thoughts on blackness. Two things, highlighting the cost of it - Financially. Visibly. Emotionally. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is likely to come across as a bit small in the grand scheme of things. But, being honest, I've been reflecting on some small points in between a lot of reading, researching, listening and conversing on the big points. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What I've come to is that whilst some of my thoughts have been on smaller things, they are an illustration of the frustration. The small things are part of the big thing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Nude shoes...</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see, your answer to the question about nude shoes immediately indicates (most likely) whether your ethnicity is black or white. (I am not going to say race here, just go with it).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you are white, you maybe thought of Duchess Catherine, maybe it wasn't much of a thought at all. And if you searched I'll bet you saw a lot of pink coloured shoes. Not too bad for you, right.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If however you are black, you are more likely to have recognised that the search would be a little harder. And a little more costly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's a simple point but it says a lot - nude shoes if you are black are often found in the 'tan' category. They are less likely to come up top of a search. They are more expensive. And it's the same with tights, hairstyles, (albeit decreasingly) make-up and underwear. Just a simple search for relative basics highlights issues of accessibility, cost, language, representation and more. Remember the debates on ballet shoes and even plasters!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even allowing for demographics, some of this just doesn't stack up (especially geographically).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">*The result: the situation feels disadvantageous<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and unfair*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">...And images</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">So it was also with the images for the Body Confidence Cards.</span></span><br />
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I set out purposefully to have cards that were diverse. I knew I wanted to have different ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, weight representation, sexual orientations and even hair colours covered so set out to find an array of images that brought balance and fit to the overall message of the deck. </span><br />
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I think I did ok. But, on reflection the cards are safer than they could have been, and not every one is visibly represented. The reasons I think, partially with hindsight, are these:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. I wanted the focus on the message, not the blackness of the message bearer (me) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. I wanted to make a statement about diversity but not scream and stage it. And this is the point that challenges me and has me asking if I could have done more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. At the time I knew and considered this: That in part, crudely put, there was a cost element to making the pack more diverse. I couldn't as easily access or afford images of plus-size and black people or those with a visible disability or disfigurement for example. Such images are harder to get on free sites. They are limited. Like brown 'nude' shoes, those images exist but the choices are less and to get them costs more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">*The result: Some people are seen less, and feel less seen*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The pictures, therefore, may be a little safe but many allow for interpretation and I am pleased that the words allow for a discussion to go where you want/need it to go. And, all is not lost I will be adding some more diversity related content to the 'Teachers Guide' too, so these reflections have been important. That will be my next contribution to the conversation. And I am going to be bolder in future image choices as much as possible.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">💭 What will your next step be?</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Back to the point!</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">So, the point of this blog is to, in a small way, highlight that some of small things tell us a lot about the bigger issue. If you've never had to look hard for nude shoes or images that positively and broadly represent you, I hope this has been a simple but useful illustration. And if you get what I mean because this has been a challenge for you, I just want you to know that I see you and feel you and will do better for us. Because you matter, we matter, I matter. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fairness and representation matters. Removing barriers and easing access matters. Black lives, and black bodies matter. (And read up on why this doesn't dismiss all, but it's not all for now)</span></span><br />
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Taking just the example of nude shoes and images, I ask... Financially - don't penalise. Visibly - see, show diversity. Emotionally - feel (for) me, support me. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I see you!</span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Denise</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #727272; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(231, 231, 231); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<br />Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-74176059591270429482020-05-10T11:57:00.001+01:002020-05-10T12:12:04.961+01:00More than a month of Meme's...<h3>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">...And what I gave energy too instead</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I hesitated to post this blog, but it's got to go.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">In a crisis, humour well used can be an incredible plus and Lord knows I've needed to laugh in the last month plus (like most of us).</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">Lots of the things I've laughed at have been about parental sanity on the home-school front and Zoom fails in a work capacity. But what I haven't found relief in, has been all the weight gain memes... </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">...I know, it's just banter right? Wrong. Banter is too close to bullying in my book - the line between them, wafer thin.</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">There are several issues with weight gain memes including - they're often upsetting to those who are already larger than society deems acceptable, it's triggering to those who have/have had disordered eating, and that it suggests that weight gain is somehow worse or funnier than things like my hair falling out and my skin getting dry and sore.</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">I know that for some the fear of weight gain is a big, real, legitimate issue and that's the point - it's a genuine concern to some and therefore shouldn't be such an easy, thoughtless share for a laugh for others.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WWyyMvyvnVQ/XrfbNRCnjbI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/s62c3JzwtY0PIKxIzh5T8J8Cg_htoEeIwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Say%2BNo%2Bto%2BMean%2BMemes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WWyyMvyvnVQ/XrfbNRCnjbI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/s62c3JzwtY0PIKxIzh5T8J8Cg_htoEeIwCEwYBhgL/s320/Say%2BNo%2Bto%2BMean%2BMemes.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">I am mindful that I have the privilege of being in a smaller body, so my concern might be deemed odd. However putting myself in someone else's shoes - 1. it's about being sensitive and 2. it's about trying to be an ally.</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">I am also aware that some people have used the memes to be self-deprecating, perhaps to get the joke in before someone else does. That makes me sad. Times are tough enough without feeling the need to further push or punish ourselves.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">💞💞💞</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">So, rather than comment on every meme post - to save my energy and yet do something - I decided to put forward positive things over fighting over negative things. I even pushed past personal discomfort and self-doubt posted a few videos*</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">The subjects I covered included nourishment, movement and more to post encouraging messages and to gently push back on some of the narratives I was seeing.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Blog here: </span><a href="https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2020/03/seven-days-in-isolation-with-bcc.html">https://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2020/03/seven-days-in-isolation-with-bcc.html</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"> 💞💞💞</span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">Nothing I did will change the world but I do hope that I made a few people reflect on what they'd been posting and more importantly helped a few people feel a little less anxious about putting on weight. And I hope this blog has that affect too. </span><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">As one of my video's points to* - its about making a genuine, personal choice though: if you're sure that you do want to do the uber-fitness thing for example, go ahead; but, if not consider this...</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"> if we can't chill a little, and eat the damn cake if we want to, when in a pandemic lockdown no less when can/will we?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's get through this #TogetherApart.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Best wishes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: medium; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Denise </i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">💞💞💞</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To find out more, get in touch via the social media channels etc below or go to * <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/</a></span>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-729186774313319422020-03-31T23:17:00.003+01:002020-03-31T23:22:05.108+01:00Seven Days in Isolation with the BCC...<h3>
...And does it really matter?</h3>
<br />
Given such challenging times, I asked myself if the body confidence agenda and cards had a place in the conversation.<br />
<br />
When I accepted the answer was yes, I set off on seven days of sharing something to keep people positive in between all the bad news and instead of all the messages that were making me feel like I had to do a five mile run every day and develop abs in a week!<br />
<br />
Each day the 'challenge' set was based on the Body Confidence Cards. More fundamentally they were about taking care of our mental health and emotional wellbeing, and not all focussed how we look or feel about our bodies as such.<br />
<br />
The topics were:<br />
<ul>
<li>Eating Happy</li>
<li>Dressing Up</li>
<li>Thinking about Messaging</li>
<li>Moving our Bodies for joy</li>
<li>Getting Creative</li>
<li>Self-care</li>
<li>Reflecting on and Thanking our Bodies</li>
</ul>
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<br />
Being stuck, aka safe, at home in isolation will have a different impact on everyone and that's ok. For some it will mean time to do good things, but for others it may be a time of negative rumination. The posts suggested only good things, so to answer the question 'does it really matter?' - Yes. Yes it does because at this point in time, we all need to fix our eyes on the light even in the darkness.<br />
<br />
It started as an offer to others, but in reality it turned out to be an act of self-care as I got alot from positive thinking and sharing something each day. I've kinda missed it today, but it's been nice to reflect and I'll no doubt have to think of something else over lockdown. Watch this space!<br />
<br />
To find out more, get in touch via the social media channels etc below or go to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Let's get through this #TogetherApart.<br />
Best wishes<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "pacifico" , cursive; font-size: medium; white-space: pre-wrap;">Denise x</span><br />
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<br />Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-21940483016890230132020-02-09T14:51:00.000+00:002020-02-09T14:51:40.923+00:00Body Confidence and the Storm<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How my fence is like Body Confidence...</span></h3>
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...And Ciara, the nemesis!</span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Storm Ciara has well and truly arrived and she's taken my fence down on her travels. So, what's this got to do with body confidence you might ask...</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...Well, I see body confidence as being on a spectrum (including acceptance through to love) and it's a journey we're all on, if not consciously, all the time.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Even if your body confidence is like a strong, sturdy fence, there may be times when storms come along and make you wobble or even fall over completely. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The 'storm(s)' might be internal, hormonal, age or circumstances related, emot<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">ionally, or physically triggered. Or the trigger can be external - a negative comment, diet ad, social media image or something else.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
The thing is to know that the fence should and can be patched up, rebuilt. Just as you should allow your body confidence to return, regrow and build when storm passes.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
You may have the skills, experience and resilience to do this yourself or you may need an expert/buddy, but you can, will and must find what it takes to make things safe for yourself again. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I created the body confidence cards for these times, but also more generally as the more anchored we are in general the less likely light winds will knock us off course. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Being wobbly doesn't make us weak, but standing up post-wobble does make us stronger. Constantly building our positive body narrative might even help us weather the big hitters.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Hope Ciara doesn't do too much damage. And I hope any down days don't last too long.</div>
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<span style="color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Here's to standing firm and/then getting back up!</span></div>
</span></div>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-0f5b596d-7fff-ef68-e299-a040c5187367"><span style="font-family: "pacifico" , cursive; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Denise x</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/?ref=bookmarks">https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/?ref=bookmarks</a></span></span>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-73259691989765496982020-01-26T14:00:00.000+00:002020-01-26T19:12:58.548+00:00Reflections from Anti Diet Riot Fest <h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">A Sunday well spent!</span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">This time last week I was at the first ever Anti Diet Riot Fest organised by Becky Young of </span><a href="http://antidietriotclub.co.uk/" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Anti Diet Riot Club</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"> (found on Twitter and Insta)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;">Being a Sunday it was touch and go if I'd get to go, but I'm really glad I made it. It's challenge to the New Year, New You mantra was right up my street!</span></span><br />
<a href="http://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2014/12/say-no-to-new-year-new-you.html"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">http://damsonbelle.blogspot.com/2014/12/say-no-to-new-year-new-you.html</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/anti-diet-riot-club-interview-a4274416.html">https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/anti-diet-riot-club-interview-a4274416.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">It was, as expected, very diverse and that was refreshing given many of the people in the space and on the platform are usually expected to (and often do) make themselves somewhat invisible or at least quiet in the crowd. It's not right - That's what the movement is trying to challenge and change.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">It was exciting to know that I'd be surrounded by like-minded people, see people I'd already connected with and possibly make new contacts in the body confidence space.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">And I wasn't disappointed.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><b>- What I did:</b></span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">My time started with an energising dance session by the School of Strut. And OMG I seriously bleeping enjoyed it. From beginning to striking a pose at the end my focus was on keeping up, appreciating what our bodies can do and having fun... not on what I, or anyone else, looked like doing it.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">I also went to some brilliant talks. The topics I listened in on were on the Snap back, Gender & Masculinity, and Race. Tough topics with some overarching themes around embracing you, intersectionality, parenting, being an ally, challenging others, the impact of the media and much more.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">I also got to be creative and make a protest banner even though I was a bit, make that a lot, weak on the protesting bit!</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">As well as lots to do there were some good displays such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/graemedraws/?hl=en">Graeme Draws</a> art and stands such as the one showcasing a range of body confident books (a few of which I'll be purchasing when the 76th of January finally arrives!). Along with a few books, I'm also already planning my next body confidence time outs.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAHNbzbSer4/Xi1R7z374BI/AAAAAAAAA8U/kL47VyS6598P0aHiY3srio4lXehty3ujgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_20200119_232748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAHNbzbSer4/Xi1R7z374BI/AAAAAAAAA8U/kL47VyS6598P0aHiY3srio4lXehty3ujgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20200119_232748.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Whilst I sadly couldn't stay for the whole day, what I got in the time I had was like rocket fuel as the place was bright, the conversations bold and atmosphere buzzing!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Roll on 2021 I say (or a summer event maybe!)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><b>- Next!</b></span><br />
<br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-size: 15px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">In the meantime if anyone wants to join me at a <a href="https://www.schoolofstrut.com/">School of Strut</a> dance class (you really, really should!), <a href="https://www.thecockpit.org.uk/show/hot_helen_of_troy">HOT Helen of Troy</a> or <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fempowerment-defined-a-focus-on-female-founders-tickets-88478061263?aff=ebdssbeac">Fempowerment</a>, holler... but note I am not looking for company as a safety net as I'll be in a safe place with my people!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Here's to a positive year ahead,</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-0f5b596d-7fff-ef68-e299-a040c5187367"><span style="font-family: "pacifico" , cursive; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Denise x</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/denise-wording-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="1600" height="20" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ntwxt9C_wR4/Xi1SI44otnI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/2P4AhmlJQNwQxQUG5oV74qPQa37rp-hLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/denise-wording-1.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/?ref=bookmarks">https://www.facebook.com/groups/2653606204690681/?ref=bookmarks</a></span><span style="font-family: "pacifico" , cursive; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "pacifico" , cursive; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-53869777570028562522017-04-09T15:43:00.000+01:002017-04-10T16:17:27.232+01:00Dressing up when feeling low.I've been in leggings and the first top I could lay my hands on for days. And that's perfectly fine, if that's your style space. But that's not in keeping with my style personality. I'm a dresser-upper.<br />
<br />
So, why the dress-down days? Dental problems... one little hole that's given me jip!<br />
"So what?" you might ask (given this is a style blog!)<br />
<br />
I'll get to the point quickly: I decided today to do me and that means I've put on a dress. And it's helped me to feel better. Not well, but better.<br />
<br />
For some it's wearing make-up, for others it's the comfort of pj's for a day. But, whatever it is that makes you feel better. It matters. Do that.<br />
<br />
It's why an organisation like (the incredible) 'Look good, feel better' does what it does.<br />
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In and off itself, what you wear on your face or body, isn't going to heal you physically but the process of doing your thing can distract you and boost your mood, which in turn will help the production of happy, healthy self producing body chemicals.<br />
<br />
But, as I said, do you.<br />
<br />
<img src="webkit-fake-url://da8c723b-2fe7-4a62-88df-ef5f346e371f/imagejpeg" /><br />
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Today, I'm doing 'feeling shitty but trying to look pretty'!<br />
<br />
Hope you're well!<br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Denise x</span><br /><br />
<li style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Call on: <a href="tel:07887 643807" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">07887 643807</a> for a body confidence coaching session or image services</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 1.4;">Look at: </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; line-height: 12.6px;"><a href="http://damsonbelle.co.uk/" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">http://damsonbelle.co.uk/</a></span></span></li>
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Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-70825567930941521002016-08-30T11:36:00.001+01:002016-08-31T14:14:37.114+01:00My summer holiday style by number!<h3>
My summer holiday 1-2-6!</h3>
<br />
Holiday dressing and shopping is something I find a pleasure. I love the hotter weather, but dressing for the office in hot weather is sometimes a challenge so let's face it, in the UK I don't get to wear my shorts and sunnies that often (as weekend sunshine isn't guaranteed)!<br />
<br />
This year was no exception, I loved planning my summer wardrobe and packing before my holiday, and shopping in Spain. So...<br />
...Here's my 1-2-6 of this summers holiday style:<br />
<br />
1. My <b>make up</b> bag travelled with me, but I really only used one item - my new "Oh my gloss" Rimmel lipgloss. It's rather lush - bright but subtle, not too sticky and stays put!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kHW_Axdx-8U/V8Vc1HKqFzI/AAAAAAAAA4E/uoEc7Guq9y8PxL7FhI9RDrKujzRJTpK1ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kHW_Axdx-8U/V8Vc1HKqFzI/AAAAAAAAA4E/uoEc7Guq9y8PxL7FhI9RDrKujzRJTpK1ACLcB/s200/IMG_2020.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
2. I seemed to do my <b>accessories</b> in two's* - I travelled with two hats (though only one mate it back sadly), two pairs of sunglasses, and brought two bracelets to match two rings, and two rings (not to match the bracelets!)<br />
*I didn't stick to the two accessory rule when it came to shoes mind you!<br />
<br />
3. I brought three new <b>dresses</b>: I hadn't intended to! I do always like to buy one dress on holiday as it's nice to have something that nobody else is likely to turn up wearing at a summer wedding! However, this time around I couldn't resist three beauties - one sassy, one sweet and one oh so-easy-to-wear. You can decide which the one below is...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iCM6G1Swwc/V8VeK2Di7OI/AAAAAAAAA4M/dkkS3P8182Uz5pO5P2NcFEJr_RYLxwYYACLcB/s1600/IMG_2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iCM6G1Swwc/V8VeK2Di7OI/AAAAAAAAA4M/dkkS3P8182Uz5pO5P2NcFEJr_RYLxwYYACLcB/s320/IMG_2011.JPG" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One new dress, in white. With white sandals. Hair up, fringe back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
4. I seemed to wear four <b>colours</b> predominantly: red, pink, white and black. Picking colours in my palette that I could mix and match made dressing easy especially as my printed items could all be co-ordinated with one of these. It really helps with packing to focus on a few colours.<br />
<br />
5. <b>Shoes</b>* are my packing nemesis - I need flip flops and trainers for practical reasons, but being petite and needing a variety of heel heights to make certain outfits work makes taking any less a challenge... for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5qGSTi0RmI/V8VewFOPVwI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/AwMm5Kon4vs3nkL1i6o8FH46NURPwrGhgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5qGSTi0RmI/V8VewFOPVwI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/AwMm5Kon4vs3nkL1i6o8FH46NURPwrGhgCLcB/s200/IMG_1978.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On trend tropical print. Worn with hot pink. One pair of heels, out of 5 pairs of shoes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
6. My <b>hair</b> - I wore a curly ponytail which meant I could wear a full ponytail, a shortened ponytail and a full updo... add to that my fringe au natural, straightened or plaited and those six variations meant a whole range of 'hair-do's'<br />
<br />
What's been your 2016 summer style by numbers, so far - make up, accessories, clothes, purchases? Let's hope we don't have to pack it all away too soon, so...<br />
<br />
...Here's to a warm September!<br />
Denise x<br />
<br />
PS - More pics may follow.Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-74865982608770005042016-04-30T20:00:00.001+01:002022-05-30T21:43:56.391+01:007 ways your wardrobe can further your wellbeing<h3>
Have a wardrobe you love that loves you back!</h3>
<br />
I recently did a wardrobe audit with a client and was reminded how much more our wardrobes hold besides our physical clothes.<br />
<br />
Our wardrobes sometimes hold our memories. They can hold our confidences. They can be an expression of our emotions. And in the back of them, we can try and bury the odd secret!<br />
<br />
A not so healthy wardrobe is one that isn't helping us, such as those filled with clothes that no longer fit and keep us thinking about when they did, rather than encouraging us to dress who we are now.<br />
<br />
A healthy wardrobe however is one that makes us smile when we open it. One that can make us feel good, not just hold the things that make us look good.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0-v9D01A5k/VyT9EgxcHlI/AAAAAAAAA30/vnhdjB6yjJU_lA3HgMcJd5Np8jpBEG9KgCLcB/s1600/Small-Walk-in-Closet-Ideas-for-Women-Pictures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0-v9D01A5k/VyT9EgxcHlI/AAAAAAAAA30/vnhdjB6yjJU_lA3HgMcJd5Np8jpBEG9KgCLcB/s320/Small-Walk-in-Closet-Ideas-for-Women-Pictures.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Confession: This is not my wardrobe! (Image from iconhomedesign.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_645696122"></span><span id="goog_645696123"></span><br />
Here are a few things you can do to ensure your wardrobe furthers your wellbeing:<br />
<br />
1. Find in it the <strong>colour/s that boost your mood</strong> - what colours do you have in your wardrobe? Work out what your regular happy's are, if you regularly wear your pink scarf, cardigan, skirt etc think about what that's telling you. If there's a colour that you love but don't own, find your perfect shade and shop for it!<br />
2. Clear it out - apparently <strong>de-cluttering is de-stressing</strong>, for example get rid of what doesn't fit (or put it elsewhere).<br />
3. <strong>Pass on old stuff</strong> - there's nothing more feel good than helping others<br />
4. <strong>Rediscover something fabulous</strong> that still fits - and wear it, you'll feel fabulous<br />
5. That t-shirt you own that doesn't fit anymore that you just can't part with... <strong>Frame it</strong>: If you love it, why not hang it on a wall!<br />
6. What's your happy memory outfit - wedding dress, graduation outfit stuck in the back of the wardrobe when it could be closer? <strong>Trigger the memory</strong>... if you smiled just thinking about it so imagine how you'll feel touching, smelling and dancing around in it!<br />
7. Use your wardrobe as an opportunity to <strong>involve a friend - make it fun</strong>, get a group together and catch up. You may even be able to swap shop... Just stay away from the red wine!<br />
<br />
The point is that you should only keep in your wardrobe, those things that make you feel great about yourself and improve your wellbeing.<br />
<br />
And of course if you'd love a professional opinion, I'd gladly help.<br />
<br />
Take care 'til next time,<br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Denise x</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<li style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Call on: <a href="tel:07887 643807" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">07887 643807</a> for a body confidence coaching session or image services</span></li>
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Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-84460384281060957212016-03-31T23:51:00.000+01:002016-04-07T11:06:26.405+01:00Springtime means pastels.<h3>
And how to wear them, if you want to...</h3>
<br />
Its traditional that retailers go from deep, strong, bold colours in the winter to pastels (pale pink, baby blue, peach and mint for example) in the Spring, and this year Pantone have doubled the ante by making rose quartz and serenity their star colours for their colours of the year.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8ZYS0z4TGw/Vv2sqbiWpwI/AAAAAAAAA3k/hJrOq3Ki88Ea2L5qYaT9oL3niTN5Qo04A/s1600/Pantone16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8ZYS0z4TGw/Vv2sqbiWpwI/AAAAAAAAA3k/hJrOq3Ki88Ea2L5qYaT9oL3niTN5Qo04A/s320/Pantone16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For some of us that's going to be quite a challenge, either because it's" not me" (too 'girly' and romantic) or because pale is unflattering on us.<br />
<br />
If it's the former, my big tip is obvious and simple: Just don't wear it... There's nothing wrong with not being 'in fashion' with everything - you can be on trend in other ways. But more importantly, it rocks to just be authentic and do your own thang!<br />
<br />
If though, like me, you don't mind a pastel but they're not top-to-toe flattering, there are things you can do. Namely these <strong>6 things</strong>...<br />
<ul>
<li>Wear pastels on your <strong><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">bottom half</span></strong> with something deeper on top (we should wear our best colours nearest to our face)</li>
<li>Go for pastel <strong><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">accessories</span></strong> with something deeper</li>
<li>Paint your<span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><strong> nails</strong></span> pale</li>
<li>Go for <strong><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">softer make up</span></strong> - my favourite soft is nude as opposed to my wintery plum shades</li>
<li>Find your <strong><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">best pastel</span></strong>: there's at least one for most colour types* eg peach for a warm undertone and lilac for a cool undertone</li>
<li><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="color: black;">Say "sod it"</span><strong> </strong></span>and occasionally <strong><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">go all out</span></strong> because you want to (you rebel you!)</li>
</ul>
<br />
However, if you're fair and love pastels, go for it - they look great on you. Whatever your choice - pastels or not... Enjoy the season!<br />
<br />
Happy Spring.<br />
Denise.<br />
<br />
*To find out your best pale shades (and all the others) and how to wear them, why not treat yourself to a colour or image consultation?!<br />
<br />
<br />
<li style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Call on: <a href="tel:07887 643807" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">07887 643807</a> for a body confidence coaching session or image services</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 1.4;">Look at: </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; line-height: 12.6px;"><a href="http://damsonbelle.co.uk/" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">http://damsonbelle.co.uk/</a></span></span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 1.4;">Follow on Twitter at: @DenDamBelle </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; line-height: 12.6px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/DenDamBelle" style="color: #727272; text-decoration: none;">https://twitter.com/DenDamBelle</a></span></span></li>
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Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8651965596373248329.post-80873661631346016432016-01-31T22:19:00.003+00:002016-02-02T21:17:45.987+00:00A great start to the year<b>Damson Belle in January</b><br />
<br />
Given I don't push the new year, new you agenda, I'm pleased that I've still been engaged in a few exciting activities this month.<br />
<br />
I've presented on the impact of our image during a corporate wellbeing week, taken a lady special occasion shopping and worked with a bride and her bridesmaid.<br />
<br />
What's been great has been the variety of what I've done and also who it's involved: both men and women, a teen and the more mature, the self-assured to the less confident. The results have included someone doing a wardrobe review, someone breaking a black eyeliner habit, some new outfits and several compliments.<br />
<br />
The feedback in each case has been positive and affirming that what I do makes a positive difference. And that's why I do it. It's great to see people reflect, challenge themselves, grow in confidence, try something a bit different and ultimately feel good/better about themselves.<br />
<br />
Over the coming few blogs, I'll share a little more about these experiences or my recommendations in theses areas.<br />
<br />
I hope you've had a good January too.<br />
<br />
Here's to a fabulous Febraury,<br />
Denise.Denise Sandersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17141848772779389963noreply@blogger.com0