Wednesday Jul 12, 2023

Body Image Baggage with Dr. Lisa Folden

In this episode of Why Didn't They Tell Us?, Dr. Lisa Folden, a licensed physical therapist, behavior change specialist, and anti-diet health coach, shares a powerful message: "We're more than a body." Growing up, Dr. Lisa was influenced by the persuasive tactics of the diet industry, which led her to believe that weight determined both health and happiness. However, her perspective drastically changed after becoming a mother to three children, transforming her relationship with her body and her approach to her profession.

Dr. Lisa provides valuable insights and practical advice for mothers who wish to nurture healthy self-esteem and body image in their daughters. She emphasizes that the words we choose to speak, as well as the ones we leave unsaid, significantly shape our children's perceptions. Moreover, our actions when we think our children aren't watching also have a profound impact. Dr. Lisa advocates for the separation of weight and food from notions of health and morality, encouraging parents to allow their children to make autonomous food choices.

Acknowledging the current generation's focus on diversity and inclusivity, Dr. Lisa highlights how this mindset naturally paves the way for body acceptance. She further emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our bodies are designed to change throughout our lives. Ultimately, Dr. Lisa reminds us that our bodies should be the least fascinating aspect about us, and that our true worth resides both internally and externally.

Quotes

• “So many mothers, we are trying our very best. None of us have it all figured out…and that's okay.” (17:51-18:31 | Dr. Lisa)

• “We won't comment on our children's bodies directly, but they hear us commenting on ours.” (19:12-19:17 | Dr. Lisa)

• “Oftentimes our children are picking up on the subtle things that we do…even though we don't ever directly say ‘Being fat is bad, don't get fat.’” (20:07-20:54 | Dr. Lisa)

• “We’re creating a culture where we think it's OK to comment on other people's bodies or make suggestions about their bodies.” (25:50-26:12 | Dr. Lisa)

• “Engaging in these conversations, kids can understand that bodies are supposed to be different…nothing's wrong with them.” (27:59-28:37 | Dr. Lisa)

• “Food is not moral…for ourselves or for our kids.” (37:51-38:06 | Dr. Lisa)

• “Nothing is forever. Your body is supposed to change…you will do yourself justice as you age.” (40:13-40:46 | Dr. Lisa)

• “You are far more valuable than what your body looks like.” (41:17-41:20 | Dr. Lisa)

• “If you don't believe in affirmations…get yourself some affirmations related to body image.” (44:02-44:31 | Dr. Lisa)

Connect with Dr. Lisa Folden:

Learn more: https://www.healthyphit.com/

Instagram: @healthyphit

YouTube: @HealthyPhitPT

Facebook: @HealthyPhit

Connect With Leslie:

Six Steps to Help Your Teen Cultivate Confidence: https://www.confidencecoachforgirls.com/

Body Image Baggage with Dr. Lisa Folden

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