Sunday, November 4, 2018

Review: Physical Disobedience by Sarah Hays Coomer

(Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I received no additional compensation.)

Goodreads Summary:
Even as a wave of renewed feminism swells, too many women continue to starve, stuff, overwork, or neglect our bodies in pursuit of paper-thin ideals. "Fitness" has been co-opted by the beauty industry. We associate it with appearance when we should associate it with power.

Grounded in advocacy with a rowdy, accessible spirit, Physical Disobedience asserts that denigrating our bodies is, in practice, an act of submission to inequality. But when we strengthen ourselves--taking broad command of our individual physicality--we reclaim our authority and build stamina for the literal work of activism: the protests, community service, and emotional resilience it takes to face the news and stay engaged.

Physical Disobedience introduces a breathtaking new perspective on wellness by encouraging nonviolence toward our bodies, revitalizing them through diet and exercise, fashion and social media, alternative therapies, music, and motherhood. The goal is no longer to keep our bodies in check. The goal is to ignite them, to set them free, and have a mighty fine time doing it.

About the Author: 
Sarah Hays Coomer is a self-proclaimed “diet abolitionist” and a lover of all things sugared, salted, fried, or dipped in dark chocolate. She is the author of Lightness of Body and Mind: A Radical Approach to Weight and Wellness. She kind of likes to exercise, kind of not. Sarah is a Certified Personal Trainer with the National Strength and Conditioning Association; a member of the American College of Sports Medicine; and a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant and Pre/Postnatal Fitness Specialist with American Fitness Professionals & Associates. 

My Review:
This book is part motivational mantras, part social analysis, and part workbook. It is divided into small chapters so you can read and then think on each section bit by bit. While this book focuses on taking care of your personal health it also emphasizes the importance that we aren't perfect and we need to stop expecting ourselves to be. This would be perfect to have on your nightstand to read a chapter each night or first thing in the morning. 

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2 comments

Judy Krueger said...

From a woman who has tried every stratagem to stay strong and slim, I guess I have come to some resolution and balance about it all. I am glad though that women are writing about these issues with knowledge and humor and care. Thanks for your review.

Rhiannon said...

Exactly Judy! I think most women have tried so many workouts and/or diets that have failed, which in turn, makes them feel like a failure. This book dove into the layers upon layers of personal and societal expectations put on every woman. I am actually re reading it to think over some of the points more deeply.

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