(((((((CC)))))))))

CC, you are beautiful in many ways including your bod. You just need to convince your brain to see it that way by changing your self talk from negative to positive. Focus on all the things you like, for example: your eyes that show your humor and intelligence behind them, your warm smile, your strong legs for getting you around, your knees for all the work it does, your core that is getting stronger and makes it possible for you to do what you do, your arms that pull you through the open water, your heart for ceaselessly pumping blood to bring fresh oxygen to where it's needed, etc. It takes time to get out of the habit of focusing on the negative. When you catch yourself doing it, imagine that you're blowing the thought away with your next exhalation. Be thankful that you and your body are healthy and strong. Remember too you've been through a lot and your body may still be recovering.

Other exercises:

1) Every morning right after you get out of bed look into your own eyes in a mirror and repeat daily 10X for a week - I am beautiful. Try to do it with sincerity. Don't roll your eyes or think "yeah right" while you're doing it. With a wipe board marker write This is Real Beauty on your bathroom mirror as a reminder.

2) With Ian, let him him tell you non-verbally how beautiful he thinks you are. I've seen the gleam he has when he's with you, so if his words don't convince you then let his eyes do the talking. Stand or sit eye to eye without saying word. He will show you how much he loves you and lusts after you. Next time try it naked with the lights dimmed. Candle light and moonlight work great. After that it's all up to the two of you.