A Body does NOT Define You, Removing Toxic Body Shame and Judgment | Lauren Minicozzi | Ep 11

This week I got to chat with my dear friend, the self-love queen, Lauren Minicozzi. Lauren has struggled with Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Depression, Anorexia, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and as a repercussion is currently battling an undefined chronic illness known as Lymes. Through her own incredible healing, it led her to writing about her journey in the hope for females to be able to resonate with and help them on their own journeys to self-love. Her book 'A Journey to Health' is based around her experiences and what she did to free herself from the toxic cycle. To remove the shame, fear and isolation so many go through and help females find self-acceptance and body love. She's also got an amazing self-love journal which EVERYONE should have - it's super cute/pink with gorgeous illustrations!!!Ladies (and gentleman), we only have our one bodies. Please stop looking at other bodies and thinking they have something that you DON'T! You are beautiful as you are, and you are uniquely you - it is time to own that!I hope this podcast helps you towards that extra step to understanding YOU and loving YOUR BODY. It is literally keeping you alive!Podcast Show Notes here: Feeling like an outcast as a young Italian girl in a western Australian culture (I can totally relate to this coming from a different culture background!)Words hurt – being told “YOU’RE FAT!” by a boy in primary schoolHiding your eating habits from your family and friends to control your food intakeUnderstanding the difference between body dysmorphic disorder, anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorderIdentifying what really matter in this life – our health, connection and ourselvesThe power of a strong support network to talk about your insecurities, open up to people that will help you lift yourself upLyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the bacterium known as Borrelia. The bacteria is transmitted when an individual is bitten by a vector usually a tick. Lyme disease can impact many bodily systems and organs and can, in some cases, mimic other illnesses ie lupus.Going through the healthcare system – don’t give up and keep seeking further professional advice to make sure you have the right diagnosisThe importance of laughter – be that little kid and keep playing!To keep up with all things Lauren Minicozzi and all her wonderful work (including her books!!!), connect with her here:https://www.instagram.com/laurenminicozzi/https://www.instagram.com/raw.is.beautiful/https://laurenminicozzi.com/If you loved this episode, please leave us a quick review as this helps us reach more people that may also love this show! Stay up to date on all things Mel Yu over on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn or Facebook. Thanks for supporting!