October 10th is World Mental Health Day.
We always talk about health, but have you ever thought about what true health is?
The World Health Organization says: “Health is not merely the absence of physical disease, but also includes mental health, good social adaptability, and moral integrity.”
True health begins with an inner harmony—particularly, a reconciliation with our own bodies.
From childhood to adulthood, we seem to always easily notice our bodies’ “imperfections”: legs that aren’t slender enough, waists that aren’t thin enough, a pimple on the skin…
For women, those “awkward” signals our bodies send during certain periods often cause us even more distress and anxiety.
“Oh no! Is there a leak?”
—I’m afraid to stand up in meetings, tiptoeing around in my seat.
“Even a sneeze makes me instantly nervous…”
—Moms who have experienced it all understand that moment of loss of control and helplessness.
These moments bring not only physical discomfort but also psychological strain. We may feel embarrassed, anxious, or even blame our bodies for “not doing enough.”
We’re used to viewing these as “troubles” to hide, but rarely pause to gently say to our bodies:
Hey, I know you’re working hard. It’s okay.
Dear, it’s time to look at things from a different perspective.
Menstruation isn’t “bad luck”; it’s your uterus’ grand rehearsal for nurturing life.
Postpartum changes aren’t “defects”; they’re brave marks left on the magnificent journey of motherhood.
These aren’t things we should be ashamed of. They’re a natural and genuine part of our bodies.
The first step to true health isn’t to eliminate all problems, but to fully see and accept our bodies as they are.
Accept that they have cycles, emotions, and changes;
Accept that they are strong, yet also vulnerable;
Accept that they are all real and natural.
When we begin to accept, true change occurs. We move from inner conflict to reconciliation, from anxious avoidance to calm coping.
The next time your body sends you signals you once considered “awkward,” try not to judge it harshly.
Breathe gently, feel its presence, and then approach it calmly and preparedly.
Acceptance is the starting point of love.
When we learn to be gentle with our bodies, the inner peace and confidence that emanates from within is the most beautiful manifestation of mental well-being and true health.
From today, may you love yourself more, starting with accepting every aspect of your body.
