Embracing All Shapes: My Journey with The Embrace Your Shape Project

Joining The Embrace Your Shape Project was a pivotal moment for me, and I want to share my journey with you. What inspired me to take that leap? Simply put, I wanted to demonstrate that all sizes are hot and sexy. Our bodies tell unique stories, and I believe that every shape has beauty worth celebrating.

Reflecting on my life, there was a significant moment that transformed my perspective on body image. At 38 years old, I received a cancer diagnosis. This experience was life-altering. After going through treatment, I realized life is too short to fixate on what I don’t like about my body. Instead, I chose to focus on acceptance and self-love. This journey taught me that every scar tells a story, and those stories deserve to be honoured.

When people see my portraits featured in this project, I hope they feel a sense of confidence and happiness radiating from the images. My journey is one of self-discovery. I want viewers to understand that embracing themselves is a personal journey, one filled with highs and lows, but ultimately rewarding.

A key insight I hope to share with others is that many women lose themselves in the chaos of life—whether it's motherhood, medical issues, or other challenges. It can be easy to neglect self-care and forget to see ourselves in a positive light. I want to encourage others to prioritize self-love and recognize their worth, regardless of their journey.

If I were to summarize my journey with a mantra, it would be: "Have the courage, believe in yourself, and most of all, do it for you." This resonates deeply with me because self-belief is the foundation of any transformative journey.

Supporting other women on their path to self-acceptance is vital to me. I often tell fellow mothers to take time for themselves. Too often, once we have children, we neglect our own needs. It's essential to indulge in self-care—whether it’s enjoying a long bath, spending time with friends, or simply taking time to breathe. We need to remind ourselves that we are worthy of that time.

Reflecting on my boudoir photography session, I discovered newfound comfort in my own skin. Before this, I was apprehensive about doing nude photos. Yet, I found that through preparation and open communication, my nerves quickly dissipated. A long conversation prior to the session helped me feel at ease; I had the chance to ask all my questions, ensuring I felt comfortable from the get-go.

As I look back on my experience with The Embrace Your Shape Project, I wish to impart one crucial message to other women: Embrace yourself and enjoy the journey. It’s okay to want something for yourself, and you should never feel guilty about pursuing your passion for self-love.

This journey has been transformative, not just for me but for all the women I hope to inspire. Celebrate every part of your story, and know that you are beautiful just as you are.