basics of your body

At this stage in your life your body is going through some major changes. And you might not feel comfortable talking to your parents about it. I hope that you find this information helpful. when your body is about to change then it's time to start taking control of your health and well-being. i am going to introduce you to the basic facts about puberty. 

information borrowed from The Care And Keeping Of You: The Body Book For Girls by Valorie lee schaefer

the changes coming up

everybody goes through puberty and its not this icky gross thing it's really something special. for most girls it starts at the ages of 8 and 13, and it ends when your body reaches its life long size, and that's around the ages of 15 to 17. through puberty you'll grow up and out, and not all parts will grow at the same rate. you'll see changes in your skin, hair, breasts, and other parts of your body. you'll also see some emotional changes too. all of these changes are caused by hormones, chemicals your body produces to change you from a girl to a woman. pay attention: learn to tune into your body hear its warnings. if your body says its hungry then eat if your body says its thirsty then drink if your body says its tired then rest. exercise: you don't have to be an Olympic athlete to be healthy. just put down that video game get of the couch and get moving! skate to your friends house or dance to your favorite music. the busier you keep your body the better you'll feel. keep clean: all the hard work your body is doing means you'll have to keep your body clean which means bathing and showering more often especially if your involved in sweaty sports. private: your body is yours and yours alone. you have the right to keep it private from anyone-family, friend, or stranger. if anyone touches you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable tell and adult you trust immediately. you should never keep a secret that is harmful to you or protect anyone who is hurting you.

compare? no fair!

its easy to compare yourself to girls on t.v. or magazines and movies.but hold on! is it fair to measure yourself to made-in-Hollywood images created by make-up artist and photo wizards? no way! you don't need to measure yourself against anyone at all, including friends or other girls at school. you're a -one-of-a-kind-original-and your beautiful in your own unique way.

it isn't a race

a girls body changes to a woman's body gradually not overnight. each girl develops at her own rate. even sisters don'y develop at the same rate. and it's important to remember that growing up isn't a race. there are no prizes for being the first or -or last-girl to lose all her baby teeth or wear a bra. trust that your body to do all the right things a the right time that is good for you.

what is on the inside

the most attractive girl in the room is not the one with the thinnest waist or fairest hair. it's the girl who brims with self confidence. she's the one who stand head and shoulders above the crowd. that girl can be you. it all starts with a positive attitude. to have a positive attitude, try to see yourself as your whole person shinning through your features. focus on whats best about you and refuse to hunt for negatives. don't doubt yourself- be proud of yourself for doing your best.

you are beautiful