Good Bellies

I was sitting in the backyard today and rested my hand on my belly. I immediately was like, “I can’t do that. That’s what pregnant women do.” But then I thought about it a little more and placed my hand back on my belly to say thank you. 

Too often as women, we only feel love and see beauty in our bellies while pregnant. Don’t get me wrong, pregnant bellies are amazing. They’re forming life and doing incredible things! But, we fail to realize that our bellies are always doing amazing things. They keep us nourished, alive and well. That’s pretty incredible too.

I think about why we call them “belly laughs”. Our bellies are our core and bring forth so much life. Out of the middle of ourselves stems this beautiful life force that we often take for granted at best if not look at it with negative feelings. Instead of shame, hate or guilt, can we not reframe the way we think of our bellies as this beautiful place that centers our bodies and brings life to us each day?

So when I placed my hand back on my stomach, I out loud said, “Thank you.” Instead of worrying about how big it is, pale in color or covered in stretch marks, I looked at it and took in appreciation for all it does for me. Next time you’re being too hard on yourself about your belly, hold it and give thanks for all it does.