Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women

Today's thought-provoking new episode may challenge the way you think about judgment and body image. Host Heather Creekmore delves into the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7, exploring how our tendency to judge others based on their bodies might not align with biblical principles. Heather emphasizes the impact of the judgments we make about others on our own body image struggles and the importance of recognizing our own idols of the heart as part of the impetus for judging others. Heather even tackles the topic of Dolly Parton's attention-getting half-time show performance on Thanksgiving, when she appeared in a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader uniform. Should we judge Dolly? Or, should we simply say, "You do you, boo?" Or, is there another answer the Bible prescribes? Heather goes through Matthew 7, the Bible's most famous judging verses, and talks about what it means to judge others, and explains the Bible's very clear prescription on parameters around how we should judge. Heather examines the challenges of judging people's bodies by their size or appearance, shedding light on the dangers of complementing weight loss and the complexities of body size and health. Heather also talks about how our quickness to judge may reflect more work that needs to be done in our own hearts around the topic of body image. Heather explains, "Until I'm able to stop idolizing the woman that has the body size that I think would make me happy, until I'm able to stop judging others by their bodies and, really, therefore, objectifying them, it's really hard for me to break free from my own body image issues." Don't forget to check out Heather's brand new book, "The 40-Day Body Image Workbook." Learn more here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-Day-Body-Image-Workbook-Christian Ready to go deeper in your journey to freedom next year? Sign up for coaching and Heather's online class: The Body Image Freedom Framework. https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Photo credits: Jeff Schultes, Shutterstock. DFree, Shutterstock   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December is full of episodes and articles telling you how to "stay healthy" during the holidays by avoiding holiday treats or exercising more . . . but today Heather encourages you with easy, tangible ways you can feel healthier during the holiday season that have nothing to do with restricting food or stressing over your weight.  In today's episode, Heather talks about the keys to being able to truly enjoy the holidays, feeling the meaning and significance of the Christmas season. Body image and food issues can keep us self focused and stressed, but there is a way to find the real peace, joy, and rest that Christmas should bring.  Here are three fun facts shared on today's episode: 1) Heather shares a personal story of overcommitting and the lesson learned from not saying no to a task, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing rest and relaxation. 2) Heather encourages listeners to take a break from social media and engage in activities like reading or doing an advent devotional to combat the unhealthy comparisons on social media. 3) Heather emphasizes the importance of deep breathing and its positive impact on overall well-being, suggesting taking deep breaths both figuratively and literally to see positive results. Ready to start your body image freedom journey? Grab the 40-Day Body Image Workbook now available everywhere Christian books are sold. Learn more about this great resource to help Christian women with body image issues and BONUSES available for ordering this month here:  https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-Day-Body-Image-Workbook-Christian Looking for more personalized help in the new year? Consider joining the Body Image Freedom Framework online course and coaching program. On sale for 30% off before December 4 is you use code THANKFUL. Learn more here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today Heather gives a preview of her brand new book, The 40-Day Body Image Workbook: Help for Christian Women Who've Tried Everything. In this episode, Heather shares the inspiration behind her book and reveals some of its key features. Heather highlights the importance of body image freedom and provides insights on why it is crucial to break free from the chains of diet culture. In this episode, she takes listeners through each week of the workbook, offering a glimpse into the discussions surrounding faith, worth, influences, food, thought life, and so much more. Plus, Heather announces an exclusive bonus for listeners who purchase the book before the end of the year: Walking workouts to help you process the content. So, get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards body image freedom with Heather as your guide. Ready to grab your copy of Heather's brand new book or start reading the sample OR cash in on your pre-order bonus of the 5 walking workouts. Learn all the things here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/books-for-christian-women-body-image Use the code: THANKFUL and save 30% off the Body Image Freedom Framework Course and Coaching (groups start in January). Learn more here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Ready to grab a group of women in your church or a group of friends and go through the content together? Learn more about Heather's group guide to help you facilitate taking a group through the book, here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/group-guide-40-day-body-image-workbook Contact Heather if you need help with bulk orders: heather@comparedtowho.me  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today Heather continues a conversation with Kirsten Schmidt, a certified eating disorder recovery coach, and the pair dive deeper into the topic of cravings and our relationship with food. Heather and Kirsten explore the common behavior of suppressing emotions and cravings and how we often misconstrue self-control as maintaining a thin body. We discuss the importance of self-control being about following Jesus and loving others, rather than purely focused on our physical appearance. Mindful eating is something many of us struggle with, as we are more accustomed to constant busyness than sitting down and truly enjoying our meals. However, we learn that incorporating gratitude into our meals can make all the difference. Kirsten shares three key insights for understanding cravings, including the need to stop dieting, change our perception of intuitive eating, and heal our body shame and fear of weight gain. Trusting our bodies and listening to its signals is crucial in interpreting our cravings accurately. Throughout the episode, we share personal stories and practical tips for understanding and responding to cravings in a healthy and nourishing way. We also address the shame and guilt often associated with cravings and explore the importance of affirming our cravings. Towards the end of the episode, we have some exciting announcements, including a special episode on holiday food cravings available exclusively for our Patreon sponsors. We also share information about a Black Friday sale on our body image freedom framework program, where you can make use of a discount code just for our listeners. Join us as we delve into the wonderful world of cravings and uncover the truth behind them. Whether you're struggling with food cravings yourself or simply curious about the psychology behind our relationship with food, this episode is for you. Learn more about Kirsten Schmidt and Totus Wellness here: https://www.totuswellness.com/ Learn more about Compared to Who? and Heather Creekmore here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com Save 30% on the Body Image Freedom Framework Course or Course and Coaching combo here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Learn more about Heather's brand new book here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/books-for-christian-women-body-image Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Heather Creekmore interviews Kirsten Schmidt, a health coach who shares her personal story of disordered eating and how she found healing. They discuss the misconceptions and societal messaging surrounding cravings, and the importance of listening to our bodies' signals. Kirsten also provides insights into the impact of chronic stress and anxiety on our overall health and the role of cravings in indicating nutrient deficiencies. This episode is a must-listen if you've ever felt guilty or frustrated with your cravings. Kirsten shares her personal journey towards peace with food and how her body may have been at it's least healthy (in terms of inflammation and chronic struggles) when she was following all the popular food "rules." Kirsten also offers valuable perspectives on building a healthier relationship with our bodies and nourishing them in a balanced way.  Learn more about Kirsten and her health coaching services here: https://www.totuswellness.com/ Learn more about Heather, Compared to Who? and how to start on your body image freedom journey here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com Are you ready to start a journey to body image freedom in the new year? Sign up for the Body Image Freedom Framework this week and save 30% using the code: THANKFUL Learn more at: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Heather Creekmore is joined by Erin Todd and Char-Lee Cassel from the Intuitive Eating for Christian Women podcast for a holiday intuitive eating coaching call. The discussion delves into the principles of intuitive eating, including unconditional permission to eat and habituation with foods, as well as the impact of mental restriction and scarcity around food during the holidays. Heather shares her journey to food freedom and her recent experiences with intuitive eating, while Erin and Char provide insightful coaching on how to find satisfaction and delight in holiday foods and foods we eat all year round. Navigating the transition to Intuitive Eating isn't always neat or simple. Heather, Erin, and Char talk through how to navigate the messy nature of overcoming diet culture, embracing mistakes, and finding hope and freedom in our relationship with food. Connect with Erin & Char and check out their holiday membership here: https://www.intuitiveeatingforchristianwomen.com Connect with Heather and find out more about her new book: 40-Day-Body-Image-Workbook-Christian Find out more about Heather's coaching and course and the 30% off Thanksgiving offer (code: THANKFUL) here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Podcast host and author, Michelle Rayburn shares her powerful journey out of Diet Culture and into intuitive eating that may have been inspired by reading Heather's first book, "Compared to Who?" In this episode, Michelle discusses her struggles with body image and food, reflecting on the shame and pressure she felt for over 40 years. Michelle and Heather highlight the importance of addressing body image work before focusing on food changes. Michelle also delves into her personal journey with intuitive eating, emphasizing the freedom it brings and the ability to focus on relationships rather than food. The episode concludes with Michelle sharing her latest project, a bible study series called "Remade," which focuses on finding hope in difficulties and struggles.  Other topics in this episode: Michelle's journey from restrictive plans and twice weekly weigh ins to finding freedom with food and comfort in the body God gave her. How Michelle's experiences with diet culture and beauty standards affected her relationship with faith and spirituality, and how did she navigate these challenges. How Michelle's decision to remove triggers such as wrong-sized clothes that were incentives for her body size contribute to her journey towards a healthier body image. How Michelle's shift away from diet culture and intuitive eating has positively influenced her relationships, daily life, and mental well-being. Learn more about Michelle Rayburn and her "Remade" Bible Study here: https://michellerayburn.com/ Learn more about Compared to Who?, the Body Image Freedom Framework online course and coaching program, AND the new 40-Day Body Image Workbook here: www.improvebodyimage.com   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today Heather continues her conversation with Jessie Cruickshank about Generation Z, their anxieties, the differences in the way they want to relate and the ways the learn, and how to help them with body image issues. Here are some key take aways from today's episode: Jessie explained how the, "Heart seeks belonging, brain seeks identity, spirit seeks truth. The rest of us isn't that interested in truth. But self loathing fractures the psyche." Jessie encourages each of us with the reality of our unique creation and that there is a purpose in way God did it. "Most think God made us wrong. We have bought into the lie that God made us wrong." Jessie explains. "But this pushes back against the identity he determined for us." Jessie also explained the importance of connection. "People don't know who they are because we become formed in relationships with others. We're not connected, we're not being formed as God created us to be formed. Accepting how God created us is foundational to us accepting our bodies." Jessie's new book, "Ordinary Discipleship" is based on the hero's journey and how applying the principles of the hero's journey can help us disciple. Ordinary people can make a disciple. Today we also discuss the importance of discipling this next generation and how it may be easier than expected. Jessie explains how Gen Z has an institutional mistrust, but they want mentors and they really want to learn. Research shows that the church has become an institution they struggle to trust. They're not sure if it's a safe place for them or their friends. For this reason, Jessie believes this generation needs nontraditional opportunities to find spiritual formation. What forms us are strong connections or highly emotional experiences. These things will be most formative for them. They want purpose, deeper discussions, and connections. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Yourbrainbyjess Visit her site at: www.Ordinarydiscipleship.com or at www.Whoology.co where you can get the free Gen Z info download by putting your info in the pop-up. Learn more about Heather's new book, the 40 Day Body Image Workbook: Hope for Christian Women Who've Tried Everything here: https://amzn.to/3Mrl94o (Amazon affiliate link - a tiny portion of your purchase supports this ministry without any added cost to you.) Visit: www.improvebodyimage.com for more information on Heather's other books and programs. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today's show is a must-listen if you have children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or folks in your ministry who are a part of Gen Z categorized as those between the ages of 12 and 26. Heather's guest, Jessie Cruickshank, has been studying the older set of this generation since they were in middle school. She has a Master's degree from Harvard in experiential education and has studied how our brains work and learn best. Here's where we go today: Generation Z looks different: More than 50% are biracial. This is changing the way they see and think about race. And Gen Z doesn't mind having more than one "tag" in this arena. We talk about how this may change the standard of beauty in the future. This generation has more anxiety because they've grown up in a more volatile and complex world and they're aware of so many things that are completely out of their control. They have a "precocious" awareness of the world. Many of those Jessie interviewed admitted to crying at night. Gen Z has more social experiences through the phone, so they're missing the regulation impact of being with people in person. Gen Z doesn't prefer the "tech" solution. They prefer non-zoom in-person communications compared to tech connections. Be gracious for how awkward this may be for them, they haven't had enough practice here. The lack of agency Gen Z has felt, has led to a great desire to speak into things, as an agent, with an opinion that matters (even if there's still some maturing to do.) Asking them questions and offering options is the best way to invite them into the conversations. What does Gen Z dream about? You'll be amazed by Jessie's startling answer here. Learn more about Jessie on her website: https://www.whoology.co Connect with Jessie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/who_ologist/ Ready to stop stressing over body image? Check out Heather's brand new book: The 40-Day Body Image Workbook, available wherever Christian books are sold. (Amazon affiliate link. A tiny portion of your purchase (at no additional cost to you) will go to support this ministry.) Join the Body Image Freedom Framework Online Course and Coaching Program - Watch for a special discount coming soon! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today Heather answers three listener questions related to body image and self-worth. These questions were taken from the Facebook group "Body Image for Christian Women" (Join anytime and look for opportunities to submit your questions!) Heather's first question today tackles the issue of when you "arrive" on your body image journey, if you finally stop hating your body. The listener asks if there's a certain point you reach when you either decide that you love your body or decide that your body doesn't matter. The second question today hits the topic of BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder) and what to do about it. Heather has addressed this topic before in this episode here: https://www.comparedtowho.me/what-to-do-if-you-hate-your-stomach-or-other-body-parts/ Heather also addresses a question about how to respond when others make comments about dieting, body size, looks, or other people's bodies. Finally, Heather tackles a question about what good could possibly come from gaining weight or getting fat. Heather delicately approaches the issue to encourage the listener that God can use all things for his good, even that! Want to learn more about Heather's new book, the 40-Day Body Image Workbook? Learn more here: https://amzn.to/3SmjuRh (Amazon affiliate link - tiny portion of purchase through this link supports this ministry) Learn more about group coaching or the new Body Image Freedom Framework online course: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/christian-body-image-course-coaching Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.