Nutrition, Diet and Health Tips

Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending a transformative Wellness retreat organised by the remarkable Ms. Naomi of Celebrity Brands. 

The retreat’s focus was profound: embracing positive body image and nurturing self-esteem. As I settled into the serene atmosphere, I could sense the anticipation among fellow attendees, all eager to explore these transformative themes.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the speaker, whose personal story resonated deeply with everyone present. She courageously shared her journey of battling self-doubt and insecurity rooted in the words and actions of her past. Growing up, she faced relentless criticism and negativity, which gradually chipped away at her self-worth.

Listening to her account, I was struck by the weight of her question: What impact do our words, actions, and behaviors have on our children’s lives? It’s a question that got me thinking deeply, urging introspection and a reevaluation of our roles as parents.

The speaker’s narrative peeled back the layers of parental responsibility beyond financial provision. Many of us, driven by our own experiences of scarcity, prioritize financial stability. But we must recognize that nurturing a child encompasses far more—fostering emotional resilience, instilling values like respect and kindness, and promoting financial literacy.

To impart these essential qualities effectively, we need to embark on our own journey of self-awareness and healing. It’s about confronting our past traumas and breaking free from the cycle of inherited pain. As parents, our emotional and mental stability directly impacts our ability to nurture our children in a holistic manner.

How can we ensure our children grow holistically—mentally, emotionally, physically, psychosocially, and financially?

It begins with cultivating self-awareness and fortifying self-esteem. Our words possess immense power—they can either uplift or wound a child. The next time frustration mounts, let’s pause and recognize that our reactions could leave lifetime scars.

By embarking on a journey of self-improvement, we enhance our parenting skills. Understanding and healing our own past traumas—be they from childhood, adolescence, or adulthood—breaks the cycle of intergenerational wounds. Traumatized parents can  harm their children without even noticing it.

Let’s shun gaslighting and extend genuine support to our children. Identify their strengths, nurture them, and teach them to embrace their imperfections and differences. Fostering a positive body image in our children commences with embracing it within ourselves.

Be kinder to yourself, appreciate your uniqueness, and cherish the divine gifts bestowed upon you. To all the wonderful mothers reading this—Happy Mother’s Day. Acknowledge the love and dedication you pour out daily, but remember to reserve some for yourself.

With warmth,
Lilian Mumina,
Registered Dietitian,
Mumina Wellness Solutions.