Let’s get straight to the point: for many of us, 2020 has been an absolute disaster. We entered the year with high hopes, thinking it would be a phenomenal chapter in our lives where we could finally focus on self-care, eliminate negativity, and truly thrive. Instead, life as we knew it was turned upside down, forcing us into unprecedented adjustments.
As parents, we are juggling teaching our kids and working from home, while constantly disinfecting surfaces, wearing masks, and missing out on cherished moments with family during the holidays. Nothing feels right, and there’s little we can do to change it.
Claiming it’s been a tough year is an understatement. It’s clear that we all need comfort in whatever form we can find it. So when it comes to feeling guilty about gaining weight during a global pandemic, that’s just cruel.
Think about it: we’ve had so much taken from us, and the one thing we’ve been able to enjoy is cooking, baking, and sharing meals with our families. There’s no need to punish ourselves for it, nor do we need anyone pushing weight loss agendas on us.
This is not the time to slide into someone’s DMs to promote your weight loss supplements. Keep your multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes to yourself and don’t use this year as a platform to build your brand by preying on insecurities about body image.
Some people have gained weight and are completely fine with it. Others have lost weight due to newfound time for exercise and meal prep. There are those who’ve completed their first 5K, while some haven’t stepped foot in a gym since March. But ultimately, none of it matters as long as you’re doing what feels right for you.
We’ve already lost enough this year; we don’t need to add body image issues to the mix. Many of us have lost job security, the ability to see friends, and gatherings like concerts or parties. Some have even had to postpone weddings or funerals. Why would we take away our joy in food too?
What we truly need is to avoid weight loss ads and the messages from acquaintances about their latest supplements that make us feel less than. Instead, we should focus on enjoying life. Whether that’s baking a pie and savoring it alone after the kids are asleep, or starting a daily walk, it’s about what brings us comfort.
Food can be a source of nostalgia and joy. It’s a small pleasure in a year filled with challenges. To be criticized for gaining weight during such a stressful time is simply unfair. We should embrace our bodies as they are and recognize the strength they’ve shown us through this tumultuous year.
Personally, the way I’ve kept my spirits up is by baking with my kids. We started with bread, then moved to brownies, and even enjoyed ice cream outings every chance we got this summer. These moments nourished our souls and kept me grounded.
2020 has taken so much from us, and I won’t allow it to steal my love for cheesy grilled sandwiches or the bliss of sneaking a brownie when I need a pick-me-up. I refuse to feel pressured into losing weight during such a challenging time.
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Summary:
This article discusses the emotional and psychological toll of 2020, particularly regarding body image and weight gain during a global pandemic. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and enjoying life’s little comforts, especially food, rather than succumbing to societal pressures for weight loss. The piece advocates for celebrating personal choices and nurturing our well-being in challenging times.