Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women

Today we continue praying for our body image by talking about praying and seeking God for wisdom to reveal to you why and where you are stuck in a body image battle. Most of us have searched far and wide for "wisdom" on how to take care of our body. I know I've searched for the best diets, the most effective workouts, the right supplements... But, stopping and asking for God's wisdom as to how to best take care of this body he's made? Hmmm... that's something I haven't done enough. Today we'll pray that God will give us wisdom in all areas concerning our bodies and our body image. Verse of today -- Proverbs 2:6 --For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Have you signed up to be email friends yet? You get a FREE walking download to lose the weight of comparison, encouraging emails from Heather that are exclusive to the email list, special offers, and more. With Christians losing their social media accounts and censorship on the rise - the best way to stay connected is to make sure we're email friends. Sign up: https://www.comparedtowho.me Follow in Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/comparedtowho) or You Tube (https://www.youtube.com/comparedtowho) for previews of each day's show! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today starts a 30 day series of praying for your body image. Today we talk about having the FAITH that you can actually change the way you feel about your body. Many of us have been let down by faith placed in other things. We had faith the diet would work, we had faith the exercise program would change us into "hot bodies" forever. . . Maybe we had faith the surgery would fix everything. Yet, we still struggle. If this sounds like you, don't despair. There is one place we can put our faith that will never disappoint. I hope you'll invite a friend to pray with you for the faith to see yourself the way Jesus sees you over the course of these next 30 days. Have you left a review of the show yet? Please consider doing this to help others find it!! Go to the show page, scroll to the bottom, and then click "write a review." Thanks so much! Are we email friends yet? We need to be! Sign up and get a free download of a fun walking workout to lose the weight of comparison. It's easy to join, unsubscribe at anytime: https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today I'll share 5 lessons I learned this summer about a wide range of topics from swimming with sharks to introversion...how everything is hardest when you're in the middle to what happened to my Thyroid and Hashimoto's disease. I hope this episode will encourage you with truth you need if you're wrestling control, battling thyroid issues, in the middle of something that feels REALLY hard, or just feeling overwhelmed by the need to manage your image. Check it out and let me know what you think. Are we email friends? Sign up for the Compared to Who? list here -- I send email friends exclusive messages I don't send anyone else!! https://www.comparedtowho.me Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comparedtowho Plus: Don't forget to tell a friend about the 30 Days to Pray for Your Body Image series that starts Wednesday, September 1! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This episode was originally called "How to Stop Troubleshooting Your Life" but it seems not many of you listened to it...so I've included it in the Summer RePlay series so you can catch it now if you missed it back in Season 2! In this episode we talk about all the different ways we see our body and our lives as projects that require constant improvement. If you're like me, you may have spent your fair share of time on the self-improvement treadmill--always analyzing the ways that you could improve yourself of anything within your sphere of control. But when we live with this "troubleshooting" mentality, it really prevents us from ever being able to rest in God's grace. In other words - when we are in constant "improvement project" mode, we can never just "be." I hope today's episode will encourage you! Not on my BFF's email list? I hope you'll join. Take the free body image quiz AND get a free walking download at: www.comparedtowho.me Are we social media friends? I hope you'll follow me on Instagram or Pinterest! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we continue with the last part of the rapid fire list of 50 ways YOU can beat comparison. We'll talk about proactive strategies to stop you from looking to comparison to figure out if you're doing okay and we'll talk about ways to dig into your past and break free from things that have been done to you or said about you so that you can find healing and relief from comparison. "A starving soul will look for nourishment from comparison, so feed our soul!" Connect with Compared to Who? www.comparedtowho.me Sign up for coaching with Heather: https://comparedtowho.me/christian-body-image-coaching-insecurity-confidence-gospel/ Resources from this episode Download: 50 Ways to Beat Comparison PDF Forgiveness Protocol: Make a list of all of the offenses that regularly come to mind. These may be related to your body image or other aspects of life. Write each one and who hurt you. Practice daily reading through the list and praying for God to help you forgive them. It's not necessary to tell the other person you've forgiven them. And, recognize that the person who hurt you may never ask for your forgiveness. Yet, it's still necessary for your freedom and healing that you can forgive them. Forgiveness is often not a "one and done" prayer. It may take weeks or month or longer praying to release these offenses until you can truly be free from them causing you pain. Fear Inventory. This looked comprehensive. It was developed by someone else: https://emotionalsobrietyandfood.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/the-fear-inventory-is-done-in-columns-like-resentments.pdf Do you have CDD - Chronic Disappointment Episode: Podcast: What to do if you have CDD: Chronic Disappointment Disorder Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Why do we stay stuck in comparison, what can we do to break out, in what ways is comparison ACTUALLY hurting us? This episode is a rapid fire list of ways that you can recognize and beat comparison in your life. Many of these ideas are found in my new book, The Burden of Better, so if you like this list --check out the book! Make sure to listen next Friday for the second part of the list... and you can download the entire 50 ways list next week too! Connect with Compared to Who?: www.comparedtowho.me Get your FREE walk to lose the weight of comparison download: www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Don't be confused by the music, friends! Today I'm sharing my interview on Jenny Zentz's podcast called "The Intertwined Life." You get to hear me asking the questions each week-but on this episode - you'll hear me share my heart about why comparison and chasing a better body can be so stressful and how Jesus offers a better way to live. Take a listen! What topics would YOU like to see covered on this show? Send your suggestions to: heather@compared to who (dot) me (take those spaces out first, of course!) Connect with Jenny Zentz: http://jennyzentz.com/podcast/ Listen to Jenny on the Compared to Who? show: I'm No Longer a Slave to Food Connect with Compared to Who: https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Watching or planning to watch the Olympics this summer? Ever notice that the bodies of the elite athletes may not look like the bodies on the magazine covers? What does watching the Olympics teach us about our body image struggles? We say we desire health...but these women are some of the healthiest in the world--and yet not all of their bodies are "enviable" according to magazine model standards. Whether or not you are a sports fan, this episode can encourage your heart as we talk about the real struggle behind our body image issues and how to defeat the body image idol. Read the Olympics post referenced in this episode here: https://comparedtowho.me/olympics-help-struggle-with-body-image/ Connect with Compared to Who? and take the Body Image Awareness Quiz here: https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Last year I did an awesome show with Dana White from "A Slob Comes Clean" about the similarities between body image and house clutter! The show has been a huge hit on You Tube where it's had thousands of views and hundreds of comments... but the audio version didn't get as many listens. So, I thought I'd edit it a little more and give you a second chance, this summer, to check out this amazing interview. Dana and I talk about why it's so hard to clean out our closets, why simple habits make the biggest difference (in body image and home decluttering) and how we're always looking for the magic fix... but doing the work, step by step, is what really works. I hope you enjoy this great insightful and informative discussion! Subscribe to Compared to Who? on You Tube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y79zLlWF8Hw&t=313s Get your FREE Walk to Lose the Weight of Comparison Walking Workout: https://www.comparedtowho.me --OR-- Take the Body Image Quiz! Learn more about Dana here: Podcast: Body Image, Comparison and Clutter at Home? An Interview with Organizer Dana White, A Slob Comes Clean Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you have an "all or nothing" mentality? Today's guest, Shawna Scafe and I will talk about this common struggle to think about life and all the things in a black and white or give 100% or 0% type of way! We talk about this mentality as it relates to habits like exercise and reading the Bible and as it relates to food. We also talk about how small habits change lives, where this kind of thinking comes from, and why our brains fall into these patterns of thinking and can't break out! If your inner critic is loud and you feel like you have to perform for value--this episode is for you too. You're going to love this conversation. Connect with Shawna: https://simpleonpurpose.ca Connect with Compared to Who? and take the free body image quiz: https://www.comparedtowho.me Other episodes mentioned during this show: Hush the Hustle Or watch on You Tube here: https://youtu.be/43TjtlR_fdA Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you battle body image? In today's show I talk about my own journey to figure out what the heart--the root of the problem was--behind my body image struggles. I share about the gas powered curling iron I used to carry with me everywhere (true story). Today I share with you THREE truths of body image issues that may not match the fiction we're told by culture about how and what causes body image issues. The first big lie: Freedom doesn't come when we get the body we've always dreamt of. The secret to freedom from your body image issues start with understanding that body image issues don't have anything to do with our physical bodies. We'll explore other facts and fiction like this, so tune in and make sure you know the truth about body image issues! Connect with Compared to Who? https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if modesty isn't about the length of our shorts or the amount of exposed skin? Could modesty be more than that? Could it be about something going on in our hearts? Even the most popular scripture passage used to encourage us to dress modestly is likely more about wearing name brands and flaunting wealth than wearing tight clothes. In today's episode, I tackle the tricky issue of modesty. I'll use lots of scripture and examples--whether you grew up measuring your skirt length or have never thought about the concept of modesty in your life--there's something in this episode for you! We'll talk about humility, honoring God, and honoring others. I'll tell my biggest mistakes in the arena of modesty and what I've learned about how to trust the Holy Spirit in this arena. Some of the scripture referenced today: Psalm 18:27, 1 Peter 3: 3&4, 1 Timothy 2: 9-10, Romans 12:26, Philippians 2:3-4, Romans 12:10, Titus 3:2, Galatians 5:13. If anything in this podcast blessed you, would you consider leaving a review? Thanks for your consideration! Connect with Compared to Who? take the Body Image Quiz and get your FREE walking download to lose the weight of comparison: https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Men struggle with body image too. And, if you're a woman battling body image who lives with a man battling body image--finding your freedom can be even more challenging. Today I talk to author Sean Coons about how to best help the men in your life (and boys too) who may be struggling with how their bodies look. But, don't think there's nothing valuable for you women in this one... We can learn a lot from each other on these issues! Plus: Today we launch brand new section of the Compared to Who? website designed ESPECIALLY for men! Do you have a question you'd like to see Sean tackle on the new section of the blog for the man (or boy) in your life? Send it here. About Sean: Sean Coons is an author, screenwriter, musician, and educator living with his wife and son in Redondo Beach, California. Sean is the author of Body: or, How Hope Confronts Her Shadow and Calls the Flutter Girl to Flight, a Christian fiction comedy exploring body image and intuitive eating. Sean’s second novel, Firefly: Let There Be Light, is a middle-grade epic slated for publication by Black Rose Writing on October 21, 2021. Connect with Sean: www.SeanCoons.com Facebook: @SeanCoonsWriter Twitter: @SeanCoons Instagram: @SeanMCoons Connect with Compared to Who? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you're battling body image, chances are there are a lot of voices in your head telling you what you should do, making you feel bad for what you did or didn't do, and saying mean things about your body or your behaviors. Today, I dig into the truth that we don't have to believe everything we think. Not all of our thoughts are healthy! Beyond that there are two specific and different thoughts that we need to be able to discern. The first is the Holy Spirit's conviction- this is how the Holy Spirit helps us live a life of freedom in Christ. The Holy Spirit gently convicts us of sin and helps us in many ways. But, the other thoughts that plague us--more of the time--are condemning thoughts. These are not from God and we don't have to listen to them--even if they contain a grain of truth! Learn how to tell the difference between condemnation and conviction in today's episode so that you can win the mental part of your body image battle. Body image issues start in the heart...but we fight them through recognizing that our mind is the battlefield! Listen and learn today! Connect with Compared to Who: https://www.comparedtowho.me Take your FREE body image awareness quiz: https://www.comparedtowho.me AND get your free 30 minute walking working/prayer walk DOWNLOAD to find freedom from comparison! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ginny Owens is an internationally recognized Christian recording artist whose been blind since she was a little girl. Today I talk to Ginny about how body image and comparison issues present when you're blind (and can't look around and compare yourself to others). We also talk about chasing idols, trying to "live the dream" and feeling restless and exhausted and we have a great discussion about what true rest looks like. "Rest is a time to marvel at God's creation, to sit back and reflect on it..." Ginny shares. We also confess our struggle to engage in community when we're tired and the temptation to come up with excuses to skip out on group activities! Plus Ginny tells me about her brand new book, "Singing in the Dark"--a book of songs and laments--and what Ginny has learned through walking through her own times of darkness. "Lament is sorrow with hope at the center because we do not go alone," Ginny shares. You'll love the encouragement she offers for times of struggle in this interview. Connect with Ginny here: https://www.ginnyowens.com Check out Ginny's new book here: https://amzn.to/3v5nGFL (Amazon affiliate link) Connect with Compared to Who? here: https://www.comparedtowho.me About Ginny Owens Ginny Owens has had an award-winning career that encompasses two decades as a singer/songwriter, recording artist, author and speaker. During that time, Owens has released 10 albums, five EPs and two Christmas projects garnering critical success, chart-topping radio singles, and numerous film and television placements. She continues to inspire others with the truth of the gospel through personal stories, songs and Bible teaching. In 2014, Ginny released her first book, Transcending Mysteries: Who is God And What Does He Want From Us, co-authored with Andrew Greer and published by Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins. Her most recent set of EP’s, entitled Expressions I and Ii(November, 2020; February, 2021) have amassed millions of streams across multiple platforms. Watch our interview on You Tube here: https://youtu.be/kXWr6xu6zm0 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Anxiety, depression, weight issues . . . eating cheeseburgers in bed at midnight . . .sneaking food and overeating to numb physical and emotional pain . . .Today's guest has experienced it all but has found freedom from food addiction and bondage. Jenny Zentz, host of the Intertwined Life, podcast shares her story. "Food was controlling me"! She shares. We also have a candid conversation about food guilt and shame (like the time I ate all the Oreos and had to go buy a new package so my husband wouldn't know) and the truth about where true satisfaction is found. We talk about Alexandra MacKillop's book, Fulfilled. Connect with Jenny on her website: www.Jennyzentz.com, on Facebook or Instagram or You Tube. Listen to The Intertwined Life show Connect with Compared to Who? and get your free walk to Lose the Weight of Comparison: https://www.comparedtowho.me Watch this interview on You Tube Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Inspired by Mindy Pickens' brilliant post from a few years ago, "Do You Deserve to Wear Shorts?", today I talk through this hot summer topic. We talk about what makes one "worthy" to wear shorts and why we get stuck believing that we're not! If you've ever worn pants to the beach or pool ... or if you've ever declined an invitation to an event because shorts would be expected-- this show's for you! Here are some things to check out if you like what you hear. Take 30 seconds and vote for Compared to Who? Best Female Podcast host in the Spark Media awards here (until June 7). Nick Vujicic ministries Staff Sergeant. Johnny Joey Jones leg's meme. Connect with Compared to Who? here! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

My guest today is a superstar on You Tube. She's a sweet, smart, and funny young woman who is poised to help a generation of women rise up and find freedom from body image issues. Her name is Cambria Joy and joy is exactly what she exudes! Cambria and I have a casual and animated conversation about body image issues. She shares her story, when she came to her breaking point with her body image and eating disorder struggles, and what she does now to help women. I also ask Cambria the question I've been dying to discuss on this show: What's the difference between wanting to be hot and healthy? I hear the words "I just want to be healthy" a lot, but sometimes this is code speak for wanting a hot body in order to satisfy body image issues. Friend - no matter what your age, you'll get something out of this episode. But, this one may especially resonate with the under 30 crowd! Here's more about Cambria: Popular YouTube personality Cambria Joy has a passion for helping others get fit from the inside out. Combining her love of faith and fitness, Cambria helps more than 600,000 YouTube followers lead healthy, God-centered lives. Her debut book is Growing Strong: Workouts, Devotions, and Recipes to Become Healthy from the Inside Out. Cambria lives on the beautiful golden coast of California with her husband, Bo. Visit CambriaJoy.com. Visit Compared to Who's brand new section for teen girls and younger women here. Take Compared to Who's Body Image Quiz and find out if Body Image is your battle here. Support Compared to Who? on Patreon (we can't do it without you!) Watch this video on You Tube. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today I'm tackling a listener question: "Heather, if we're all the Imago Dei, then why aren't we all, equally beautiful?" I loved this question and I hope you'll take a listen to the answer. She's right, we're all made in the Image of God (Imago Dei) - so how can there be so much variety in the way we look and how does that result in some people being considered more "beautiful" than others. We'll explore the layers of this question in depth in this episode. Connect with Compared to Who?: https://www.comparedtowho.me Send your listener question to: [email protected] Get your FREE Walk to Lose the Weight of Comparison workout here: https://www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I'm so excited to share with you a conversation with my intern-- Amber--who bravely shares her story of struggling with disordered eating and body image issues in high school. Amber's graduating this month from college and has learned a lot about her struggle and the way her peers in their teens and twenties are wrestling body image, comparison, and insecurity in the age of non-stop selfies and perfect social media pictures! If you ARE a teen or twenty something or have a daughter, niece, or granddaughter in this age range-- this episode is one you'll want to listen to and share! Visit improvebodyimage.com If you're loving what you hear on this podcast - would you be so kind as to leave a review? Thanks for considering! (Scroll to the bottom of the show's page (the one that lists all the episodes) and you'll find a place to review and rate there! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Everywhere you look you can find a #selflove or #loveyourself mantra to "encourage" you and help you "improve" your body image. But is self love really the way? Is self love even biblical? What about self-esteem? Is that something we need more of if we struggle with body image? Today, Heather explores the truth of how self esteem has impacted us and why self love may not be the biblical answer you've been told it is. Here are some verses to check out as you listen: Matthew 22:37-39. Jesus says the law hinges on these two commandments. (Love God and love your neighbor. If self love is a hidden commandment in there, then Jesus' math is wrong.) Ephesians 5:25-30. Paul tells husbands to love their wives as they love themselves. Doubtful he is giving them an excuse to hate their wives if they "hate" themselves. 2 Timothy 3:2. In the last days men will be "lovers of self." If you read the passage you'll see, this wasn't a compliment or a command. This was something to be avoided! Take the FREE body image awareness quiz and learn more about Compared to Who? at www.comparedtowho.me Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

My guest today is my friend Shawna Sullivan. We have a wildly fun conversation about how to start seeing your life differently--through, what Shawna calls, the lens of investment. Now, before you think this is about money or finance--let me encourage you. Today's show is all about how you live in light of the Gospel. Shawna lived in Manhattan for more than a decade and learned some invaluable lessons about what it means to follow Jesus and make decisions with the ultimate end in mind. We talk about topics such as: 1) How to assess what's most important in life, in terms of what we do with our time and energy. 2) How to see your life, your activities, and your choices through the lens of God's kingdom. 3) Why taking care of your temple doesn't mean you have to be "hot" for Jesus. 4) What it means to be a disciple maker and how simple but impactful that can be! 5) How to find the true makeover story in our own stories. Grab Shawna's Free Download: A Practical Guide for a Purposeful Life here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6026e9e099bcbde3ca17c2f0 SHAWNA SULLIVAN BIO Shawna is a mother, home educator, andchauffeurto four children. She and her husband love encouraging others to live intentionally, embrace adventure, and find joy in a life surrendered to the mission of Christ. When she is not writing or teaching her own children, she teaches a class of 8th graders and loves to play tennis. Now back in Texas after 13 years in New York, she will never take a backyard, time with family, air conditioning, or her own laundry room for granted. Shawna writes regularly on her website, sharing truth-filled encouragement and practical ways to find a fulfilling life by investing in that which is truly valuable. She sends out a newsletter, entitled First Things First, and you can find her published article in a recent issue of The Joyful Life Magazine. Connect with Shawna: www.shawnasullivan.com Instagram Pinterest Watch our interview on You Tube. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today's show is a must listen. It features a conversation with two of my coaching clients--Angela and Kim. You're going to be blessed by their stories! They're real women who had real body image struggles and are now walking in new freedom! Angela is a married, working mom in her late 30s who has struggled with dieting, compulsion to follow all the food "rules," and other food, body, and exercise related strongholds. Kim is a happily married and retired woman in her early 60s who has tried all the diets, all the plans, and has battled body and food-related struggles including Binge Eating Disorder for decades. Both women started working with Heather at the end of 2020 and both are experiencing new freedom with food and with their bodies--freedom they never even realized was possible. Angela and Kim were part of the ReFOCUS program (which starts May 17) and then went on to do group coaching with Heather. Their stories will encourage and inspire you that real freedom is possible. And, don't miss the last 5 minutes!!! In this interview we: *Talk about how Angela and Kim were stuck and what led them to finally realize they may need some help in this area. *How ReFOCUS21 began the shift of changing the way they thought about their body and food issues. *What really happened in coaching with Heather *And, how they are different after a few months of "heart work" on these issues. Sign up for ReFOCUS21: https://comparedtowho.me/refocus-christian-body-image-course-online/ Find out more about group coaching or snag a 15 minute "Would this help me?" call with Heather: Send an email to [email protected] Plus: Burden of Better e-book is available for just .99 on Kindle! Grab a copy today. Ends soon! (Amazon affiliate link means a tiny portion or your .99 will support this ministry.) Learn more at: www.comparedtowho.me Support this show on Patreon or with your 5 star review! Review on iTunes by scrolling to the bottom of the show page (through every episode) and looking for the unlit stars. Or review on Podchaser here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Well, you did it! You completed all 25 days of the Spring Break Free: Body Image Freedom Course! (I hope, if you cheated and watched this one first, I still love you. Just go back and catch up on what you missed when you have some time.) Today I really hope you'll catch the truth of what FREEDOM truly looks like. Catch up on any episodes or questions you missed here: https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ Find out my tips for trying on a swimsuit here: Here are some questions to consider as we close this month together. What tools can you use to answer back those voices of negative body image? If you need more resources or help, consider personal training where we work on this specifically in one of the units. Freedom means knowing how to fight and win, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll never be tempted to feel bad again. How can you practice kindness with your body? How have you been cruel to your body in the past? What would it look like to have a healthy relationship with your body and the way God made you? (Again, if you need more help here or feel stuck, consider personal training.) Where is your focus? If you find yourself slipping into a spiral of negative body image again - stop and ask yourself what you're focusing on Need more help? Here are some resources. First: Read Compared to Who? and the Burden of Better. If you haven't done this yet, I can think of no better or easier place to start. There's a lot in the book that's not in the Spring Break Free Series. Second: Consider Signing Up for ReFOCUS21. Next session starts May 17. Third: Consider Coaching. You can find out more about that here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Only 1 day left in the Spring Break Free Series. Today, we're going to talk about some practical ways you can prepare your heart for swimsuit season. Everywhere you look you'll find tips this month on how to get your BODY ready for summer. But, how do you prepare your heart for swimsuit season? If you are a woman who struggles with her body image and has a hard time not comparing herself with all the other ladies sitting around the swimming pool, then how do you prepare yourself to engage in the battle? Go here for your discussion questions and to catch up on what you missed: https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ Questions for reflection: What do you think of Heather's suggestions? Could you ever break up with your scale? (Here's what happened with Compared to Who contributor did it and another contributor tried it for Lent!) What about spending less time with the mirror? Do you think you spend too much time analyzing your appearance in the mirror? Here's the link to read more on the merit of "Mirror Tilting." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Community. What is that anyway? It's a bit of a modern Christian "buzz word" but what does it really mean? Let me break it down for you. Community requires you to be a part of a group of people who know your name. People who care about you. People who know you and about your stuff (even the stuff you aren't proud of.). It requires you having friends and being a friend. Community is hard. It can be uncomfortable. Especially at first. I mean, what if you get rejected? What if you share something and people laugh . . .or worse . . .people start to avoid you? Yikes. That's scary. I get it. I'm a pastor's wife but I still TOTALLY understand the struggle to be in community. Here's my take on why community is SO vitally important though! (Especially if you hope to be truly free from body image and comparison issues!) Watch and let me know what you think: Questions for reflection: Do you have community? Do you go to a church where people know you and you know them? Do you have Christian accountability? Do you serve in your local church body so you can use your gifts within the context of community? What other communities have you been a part of? Do you find it easier to be a part of a community at work or in a gym type setting then at church? Why do you think this is? Miss some of the Spring Break Free series? Catch up here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you guilty of comparison? Don't feel bad. Most of us are. It's hard, in our culture, not to compare ourselves to others. I mean, gracious, we see their lives in front of us all day long. It used to be you could only compare yourself to those folks you ran into during the week. Now, we can see all of our friends' lives, around the world, all.day.long. What makes matters worse is that most of us are guilty of projecting our best self. I mean, who puts selfies online that look bad? You take the 35th shot (the only one that makes your chin look less than double) and that's the one you post. Not the 34 where you look a little fuller in the face. Come on. We all do it. Don't we? We project a certain image online. If comparison is where you struggle - check out my brand new book, The Burden of Better and start reading here. Listen to today's episode and then check out the questions for reflection on Day 22 of the Spring Break Free. Or, catch up on all the episodes at: https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ Here's more on the topic of comparison in today's video: Questions for reflection: Do you tend to compare your rough days to other people's best days? Do you tend to believe the "storyline" that women share online, social media, etc . . .or do you look deeper? Have you ever thought about the concept of objectification? Do you feel that you sometimes objectify other women (looking only at one aspect of them and comparing yourself to them in only one way?) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Food. I'd rather not talk about food. Okay, I guess that's not true. I talk about everything--maybe a little too honestly. But, I just wrote this post confessing my affection for Bark Thins and how quickly they seem to disappear in my house (although I won't let anyone else touch the bag!). In that post I also shared with you some information on the book I mention in today's video. It's called "Full: For, Jesus, and the Battle for Satisfaction." (Buy it on Amazon here.) Need Eating Disorder Help? I recommend you start by checking out: Rock Recovery or visit the site for more resources. Questions for reflection: In what ways has your struggle with body image connected with your struggle with food? Have you ever used food to try to control your body image? Have food issues/eating disorders been a byproduct of your body image struggles? What do you think about Heather's point that she needed to solve her body image issues before she could work on her food issues? Why not join us for the rest of the Spring Break free? Or, start over if you missed some by clicking here! **This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase recommended books through these links it benefits the ministry of Compared to Who? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I taught fitness classes for over a decade and I saw it every week. One night though, it really scared me. That was the night when we got off the spin bikes to stretch and she fell over. She got off the bike and next thing I knew, she was on the ground. She had a friend with her. For this I was glad, because the friend was the only one able to give me any information. "Are you okay? What happened? Can you breathe?" I'd been trained in CPR and First Aid but never had to use it. My brain raced. Should I be telling someone to call 911? Start the Heimlich maneuver. Wait. She wasn't choking . . . The friend filled in the gaps. "She's been working in the yard all day and she did another class this morning." "Did you eat before you came tonight?" I asked the woman on the floor. Feebly, she shook her head no. "When's the last time you ate?" I continued. "This morning." She mumbled. I looked for her water bottle. It was empty. Likely, she wasn't dehydrated, but under-fueled. Rushing to my gym bag I pulled out a packet of kid's gummy snacks. I asked the lady to start eating them. Her blood sugar was likely low, thus causing her to almost pass out. *** Exercise is healthy. It's good for us. But, even "good" things must also be done in moderation. I know this won't apply to everyone watching. Some of you are thinking, "I wish I could get up the energy to go for a ten minute! Over-exercising is hardly an issue for me." If that's you, then skip this one. I get it. But, others of you may make too much of exercise in your life. Over-training is a real "thing" and is not healthy for your body or your soul. If over-exercising is a way you've tried to control or "fix" your body image, then I hope you'll watch today's video: Questions for reflection: Have you ever over-exercised? In what ways do you think you may have looked to exercise as a "cure" for your body image issues or sought out exercise as a potential savior? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ahh . . . clothes. I love clothes. Well, sometimes I love them. Other days, I hate them. I look at my closet and search through my drawers and physically feel like there's no possible way anything will fit. Clothes have this funky connection to my body image. Sometimes they help me feel "better" (or so I think . . .) other days, they "make me" feel worse (or so I blame. . .). I spent decades shopping for the perfect clothes to help assuage my issues with my body. The challenge is, I never found them. Or, at least I never found any that could help me in a permanent sort of way. That new dress would help me feel good for a few days, and then. Boom! Right back to needing something else, new, for the next special occasion. Listen to or watch today's video for a little more about my struggle with clothing. Maybe you can relate? Questions for reflection: Have you used clothing to try to help your body image? Are you a compulsive shopper or are you constantly looking for the next "perfect outfit" to try to fix the way you feel about your body? In what way's do you think this practice is healthy or unhealthy? Can I encourage you to prayerfully consider the ways clothes have played into your body image struggle today? (Do you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear? Read this for encouragement!) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's episode of the Spring Break Free - we talk about sex and body image. If you've ever thought someone wanting you, physically, would solve your body image issues--this episode is a much watch or listen. Is there a connection between sex and body image? Whether you are single or married, you may be surprised to learn how intertwined they can be in the lives of some women. Listen or visit the site to grab the discussion questions and watch the video. https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ Watch today's video to find out more about their connection: Questions for reflection: Spend time praying and thoughtfully answering these questions privately. In what ways have you tried to use sex to help assuage or "fix" your body image? In what ways has sex helped or hurt your body image in the past? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is there one habit that's potentially worse than all others for your body image? I think so. This habit will destroy your body image. Even if you make progress . . .if you slip back into doing this, you'll likely find yourself right back in the pit of despair over your looks and size. What am I talking about? Catch up on what you missed or get your daily discussion questions here: https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ You'll just have to listen or watch this video to find out more: [wpdevart_youtube]UgI8ZQbGDiU[/wpdevart_youtube] Questions for reflection: What do you think of today's video? Do you think that Heather's points are right or do you think it's okay to keep these habits? Write your response below (in the comments section) if you are comfortable, and let's start a conversation about this important topic! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There's one habit that you need to do, every day, if you really want to experience lasting freedom and change in the arena of your body image. Want to stop comparing yourself to others? Want to feel truly free to love and be loved? Want to get out of the pit of despairing of your size, shape, cellulite or other body woes? Then you need to do this one thing. I'm serious. It works. Most women (even Christian women) have yet to try it . . . Question for reflection: How do you think prioritizing this ONE habit could change your perspective on your body? **God and I had a little chat after I recorded this video. Here are a few more thoughts on this topic. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We've all heard the over-used definition of insanity. "Trying the same thing, over and again, and expecting different results." No one really knows who said it, but we all know it's true. If you're like me, you've tried all the diets, the fitness gimmicks and maybe even the weight loss pills. You've tried convincing yourself that your true value is found on the inside and that you are more than your pants size. You know all the lingo. And, yet . . .you're still struggling. Relax. You're normal. But, today, we can turn a corner. Now that you've identified the root of body image idolatry, perhaps you are feeling more hopeful. You know that things can be different now. For the rest of the Spring Break Free series, we'll be talking about the habits in your life that will need to change as you attempt to find, and keep, your freedom. Watch today's video to find out more: Questions for reflection What conventional methods of fixing your body image have you tried over and again with limited success? Diets? Exercise programs? Positive Pep Talks? Self-Esteem "Boosters?"? Do you believe there's wisdom in trying something new? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It's Spring Break Free Day 14! Today we'll wrap up our talk about idolatry with a discussion about what questions you need to ask to see that those idols are ousted from your life. Listen above or watch Heather talk about body image idolatry in today's video: Question for reflection: Use the two questions in the video as your questions for today. They are: What does beauty mean to me? (What would it mean if I did get the body I wanted? How would that affect my life? Are these benefits lasting and meaningful or fleeting (James 5:1-6). What do I treasure? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Once you've identified that your heart tends to make and worship idols, what do you do? How do you get rid of the idols of the heart? Should it be encouraging or discouraging to find and uproot these idols? Listen above or watch today's video from 2017 to learn more: Questions for reflection: Do I believe that salvation comes from Christ alone or do I believe that "things" or "people" or "happiness" can save me? Take some time today to pray and ask God to continue to reveal to you the idols of your heart. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God surprised me a few years ago with a concept I never learned about in church. Okay, that's not entirely true. Of course I had heard about idolatry in church. But, I knew I didn't have to worry about breaking that commandment. We didn't have a single statue in our home! When I learned what modern day idolatry actually looked like . . .Boy! Was I surprised. Here's how to recognize an idol in today's video: Questions for reflection How familiar are you with this definition of idolatry? Do you struggle with the pursuit of things that don't have eternal value? Do you think body image or beauty idolatry could be a struggle for you? Why or why not? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's video I tell you about a girl from Orange County, California who went to a Tony Robbins' event. She tells Tony that she's unable to control her eating habits and she wants to do better. That's why she's at his meeting. (For context, let me assure you that a size four dress would have hung loosely on her petite figure.) In today's video I talk about what it is we all long for. Why beauty and a "better" body are so tempting to chase . . .it's something we all have in common. Watch more here: Questions for reflection What were your initial thoughts when you watched today's video? Can you relate to the desire to have a makeover, weight loss, or other kind of physical transformation to change your life and give you what it is you're really looking for? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you watched the Biggest Loser? If not, it's still likely you know the premise. Contestants participate in a weight loss competition. The "weigh ins" combined with team voting determine who stays with the program and who gets the boot. I was a success story JUNKIE. I loved before and after photos and journaled accounts of how women changed their bodies. Did they cut down on carbs or add more workouts? What kind of new habits did they start to inspire that weight loss? What secrets did they discover that no one else knows. This is what I wanted to know when I read these success stories. I craved the information because I wanted what they had . . . a new look. Or, more honestly, maybe I wanted something more than that. Something deeper. Here's more in today's video: Here are a few other posts I've written on this topic for additional reading. Questions for reflection Joy, peace, love, hope . . .did you ever (secretly) believe that any of these things could come from having a new (better, thinner, taller, shorter, smaller, whatever . . .) body? Did you ever believe the lie that more beauty or a better body is where salvation comes from? Spend some time today thinking about the ways that you may have bought the lie of "temporary" salvation that comes from body change . . .or from any other idol you may fight in your life (some of us believe that our "salvation" will come from marriage, or children, or "better" children, or a "better marriage!) Pray that God will reveal to you the truth of genuine salvation and show you these idols. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There's a wonderful song by Big Daddy Weave called, "Story" watch it first before viewing today's video! For years and years, I believed that I didn't have a story. I was a "good girl." I didn't have a dramatic testimony of salvation from the depths of drug abuse or alcoholism. I wasn't a hardened criminal who saw the light and softened my heart. It seemed my testimony was as bland as bland could be. Boring. I didn't think I had a story. But, now I see things a little different. You see, if we've really, truly been saved, we've been saved from something. There's a before and an after. Like a makeover, there needs to be a visible change. When I entered my mid-thirties I began to see (and feel) my own depravity and realize that I did need a Savior to redeem my sins of pride and idolatry. Truth is, any story of someone going from death to eternal life IS a good story. Right? Here's a little more about my story and change of perspective: Questions for reflection Have you ever spent time thinking about your story? Maybe you DO have a dramatic story of who you were before Christ and who you are now. Or, maybe, like me, you've struggled to figure out what your "testimony" is. Spend some time today thinking about your story. Most of us crave a physical transformation, but the spiritual transformation that happens when we see what God has done in our lives can lead to a type of freedom that's better than a dramatic weight loss or professional makeover! If you haven't had this type of transformation, then let me encourage you. It's available. For you. Today! Your value was settled at the cross where God gave his only son to die for you! Accept his free gift of salvation and believe in Him today. Confess and repent of your sin and embrace his great love for you today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

During the last few days you've heard me share about the things I tried and thought would fix my body image issues . . .and how each of them failed. Today, I share how brokenness and the revelation of body image idolatry transformed my story. Watch it here: Question for Reflection Do you believe that God's will for our lives is not for us to stay stressed over our physical appearance? How can you reconcile what you believe about God's desire for us as his daughters and your struggle? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Marriage didn't fix my body image issues. In some ways, it may have made them worse! But, there was still something I hadn't tried. I knew if I could just get pregnant, then, somehow, I'd feel better about my body. After all, in my mind, pregnant women didn't need to worry about how they looked. They had a baby growing in them! What an awesome job and responsibility. How could anyone nurturing a baby in their womb stress over calories or the shape of her bum? Oh, but, this is the part of the series where you learn how dense I truly am. Haha. Can a pregnant woman worry about her body image? Uh, yes and double yes! Here's my story: Question for Reflection I have friends who swear that pregnancy fixed their body image struggles. Eating disorders were finally beat because pregnancy made them see their bodies in a new light. But, for me, it had relatively no positive impact. If you've had a baby, did body image bother you while you were pregnant? If not, are you guilty of imaging that pregnancy will "fix" your struggles? **Answer below to join the conversation or answer privately in a journal for prayerful reflection later!** Here's another post on lessons I learned about how my children were little mirrors who needed me to work on my issues so they wouldn't repeat them! Watch and read the rest of the Spring Break Free Series Here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Yesterday, I shared one way I (ineffectively) tried to fix my body image. Truth is, after I tried and it failed, I wasn't all that surprised. Why? Because I knew the real reason I wasn't happy with my body had to be because I was single. Deep down I was sure if I just had a man, all these body image issues would evaporate without a trace. Boy was I wrong. Hear all about it and read about it on the blog by clicking here: https://www.comparedtowho.me/what-i-thought- would-fix-my-body-image-part-two-marriage I've blogged about this a bit before, so if you want to read more, you can do that here or here. Or, if you just want to hear how it happened--straight from the horse's (embarrassed) mouth. Listen to today's episode or click to watch today's video: Questions for reflection If you are married, did you believe that marriage would solve (or at least help) your insecurity or body image struggles? Did it? Do you still believe that a "mere man" can fix body image issues? Has your husband helped you in the arena of body image? Does he struggle to know what to say or do when you talk about your struggle? (If so, recommend this post-- How to Help Your Wife With Body Image Issues-- to him!) If you are single, have you ever thought "If I just had a man . . .I wouldn't struggle?" (It's okay if you did, that's what I believed! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It's Day Five of our Spring Break Free! Today, I share what I thought would fix my body image. It's almost embarrassing now . . . I can't believe how naive I was to think this would ACTUALLY work. But, I tried it. Some of you will think it was extreme . . . All I can tell you is: It didn't work. Watch today's video for more: Question for reflection Did you ever believe that people who were in great shape (like the instructors of personal trainers at a gym) never struggle with their body image? If we believe that body image issues are internal issues, not issues related to how our bodies actually look--doesn't it make sense that women of every size and shape could struggle? How does this strike you? Do you feel more apt to believe that certain women struggle more or less than other women do? **Scroll down to answer in comments if you want to be part of the discussion. Or, answer privately in a journal for prayer and reflection later!** Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you know how to spot a woman with body image issues? Do you know what she looks like? Is she thin? Overweight? Is she wearing make-up? Or has she never set foot in a Sephora? Does she spend lots on her hair and nails or are those salons places she'd never visit. Is she in her thirties, forties, or as young as middle or high school? My answer: Yes. Women with body image issues don't meet a particular type. In fact, you may just see one in today's video. Watch the first part of my story. Here I tell you about when my struggle began. Questions for reflection If you struggle with body image, have you ever stopped to think about your personal story? When did your struggle begin? Can you pinpoint a time in life? If you feel comfortable, share it in comments below. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's installment of the Spring Break Free we will take a look at why body image issues are so hard to fix! There are seemingly so many "solutions" out there as to how to stop stressing over your body. Body love, body pride, body transformation--each of these "solutions" is sold to us as an effective cure. But what if the real problem with our body image has nothing to do with our actual bodies. That's what we talk about in today's episode. Don't forget to go to the FULL show notes to get your discussion questions. https://comparedtowho.me/category/spring-break-free-body-image-course/ I took my child to the doctor the other day. Pink, itchy spots covered his little body. He had a fever of 103 and was barely able to eat. The doctor's diagnosis: He has a broken leg. She put a cast on it and said to come back in six weeks to get it removed. If this were really the scenario, if my doctor was truly this lousy at diagnosing illness, I think I'd find a new one immediately. Wouldn't you? Obviously in the scenario above, my son doesn't have a broken bone. He has a virus or other contagious illness. A cast on the leg won't fix it. Friends: This is exactly what I believe the problem is in our culture. We are trying to fix the "virus" of body image issues with a plaster cast. Today I explore some of the ineffective ways culture tries to "cure" body image issues. Some of these proposed "cures" are obvious, others are more discreet. Question for reflection In what ways have you tried culture's cures for your body image issues? Have they worked? Don't miss a single day of the Spring Break Free! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Day Two of the Spring Break Free! Why are there so many body image issues? Today we define some terms. What is body image? Is there a connection between how you look and your body image? What's Body Dsymorphic Disorder? And, finally, why do so many women struggle with their body image? Watch today's video and see if you agree with Heather's analysis. If you don't believe me about the Carrie Underwood thing . . .Here's a link! It's a few years old (I'm assuming she's changed a bit! But I don't know!) Questions for reflection Do you feel like a lot of women you know struggle with their body image or do you feel alone? Have you ever considered the fact that one's physical appearance doesn't connect to their body image? (Here's a post on this topic if you need to read more!) It's not too late to invite a friend to join . . .Forward this or use social media channels below. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome to Day One of the Spring Break Free! I created this course in 2017 as a companion or use-along with my first book, Compared to Who? This course is all about helping you get free. I want you to be free from body image stress and comparison's burden. Friends Don't Let Friends Struggle With Body Image Alone Have a friend that needs body image encourgement? Use the email or a social media link below and share with her. Trust me . . .most women need encouragement in the body image arena! Or, gather some friends online and start a Bible study using these videos as your guide! Tomorrow we get into the meat of why there are so many women with body image issues! Don't miss it! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rachel was hot, Leah was not ... Bathsheba was lusted after, while Tamar couldn't get her deceased husband's family to fulfill their obligation and marry her. There are so many women in the Bible whose stories we know, but what separates the "hot" from the "not?" Can we learn a lesson about physical beauty and body image from the women of the Bible? My guest today, Rachel Risner, is the author of a Bible study on the women in the lineage of Jesus called "Significant." Listen and learn today! Connect with Rachel: www.rachelrisner.com Buy Rachel's book here. https://amzn.to/3uqaUSa (Amazon affiliate link) Get a FREE walk to lose the weight of comparison download when you sign up for the Compared to Who? friends list at www.comparedtowho.me sign up here: Review the podcast and win 2 free hours of coaching! Share your review on social and get 5 extra entries. Watch the live and unedited version of our interview here: Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Clothes that don't fit may be causing you more shame than you know...and no one ever broke free from the shame of body image through shaming themselves! Here are Heather's most compelling reasons to clean out your closet and sweep away body shame. Plus: Helpful tips on how to practically do this. Read more on this topic: https://wp.me/p4wMDD-K7 Letter to clothes that don't fit: I'm breaking up with you. When None of Your Clothes Seem to Spark Joy. Connect with Compared to Who? Win free coaching with your podcast review - Tag @comparedtowho or email here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.