The Body Joyful

by Anne Poirier

Anne Poirier’s The Body Joyful is a game changer. It is an anti-diet book, a rejector of societies “thin ideal,” and a new perspective in a Covid world. It provides insights and strategies and is a roadmap to help you shift the way you think, act, and live. Inspiring and empowering, this relatable story offers the reader permission to find self-worth, hope, healing, and transformation, regardless of weight, size or shape.

In the words of author and speaker Brian Tracy “This inspiring, motivational book will help you unlock your self-confidence and feel wonderful about yourself. You’ll learn that you have no limits”

If you are ready to stop depriving yourself with diets and beating yourself up with self-criticism, this book is for you! Read it and join the Body Joyful Revolution Tribe now.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help

320 pages, Paperback

Published October 5, 2021

About the author

"Thank you Anne for sharing this gem with the world!" Achea Redd

"Not a Fat Annie is an inspiring story that portrays the power of support, the effects of bullying, and the universal harm of the diet culture through relatable characters. It is a celebration of differences and a must read for all ages!" Liz Altunkara-NEDA Director of Education

“Unlearn” the rules of diet culture and finding self-compassion". Elyse Resch

"Anne is the voice for the anti-diet movement, this book is a game changer!"Pamela Bruner

Having struggled with my own eating, food, weight and body image challenges, I Founded Shaping Perspectives, A Woman’s Way to Joy and decided to write the book the Body Joyful: My Journey from Self-Loathing to Self-Acceptance.

My mission is to support, encourage and inspire women of all sizes, shapes and weights so that they can say 'no to diets', 'reject society’s thin ideal' and heal from diet culture. I help women feel more comfortable and confident in their own bodies and selves so they know their true value and worth.

Anne Poirier CSCS, is a nationally recognized Body Image Expert, author of the Body Joyful, and leader of the Body Joyful Revolution. As a pioneer and leading voice for the body neutrality movement she has been featured and cited in major media outlets around the world including Shape, Women’s Health, Prevention New York Times, Washington Post, Newsy, Livestrong, Huff Post, ABC, Fox, CBS and NPR. As a long-time eating disorder survivor, non-diet coach and certified self-talk trainer Anne has been a guest 55+ podcasts and serves on the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Lived Experience Task Force. In a 35+ year fitness and coaching career and now as a certified Intuitive Eating Councilor, Eating Disorder Specialist and Life Coach, Anne helps women free themselves from diet culture and society’s thin ideal using her Body Joyful Solution. Anne can be reached at anne@thebodyjoyful.com

Some fun facts...

*I love walks on the beach, chasing & capturing sunrises on my phone and collecting sand dollars
*I dance to 80's music...in my driveway early in the morning
*Swinging on a swing set happens whenever I see one.

I am the mother of two adult daughters and live in the beautiful Hilton Head Island in SC

Reviews

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really liked metaphor of a garden; planting seeds, growing roots, weeding and replanting. Anne uses this metaphor to show the life cycle of her eating disorder and self acceptance and explains how ones perspective makes a big difference. Well thought and well written, Anne's journey and hard earned wisdom can help anyone weed their garden and blossom.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

What makes this book stand out is its refreshing and compassionate approach to body image. Instead of focusing on dieting or unrealistic beauty standards, Anne Poirier teaches readers how to reconnect with themselves and live joyfully. The lessons are thoughtful, practical, and encouraging. I especially loved the reflections and mindset shifts included throughout the book. This is not just another motivational book it’s a roadmap toward emotional freedom and self-respect. I highly recommend it to anyone tired of diet culture and negative self image.

[Kameltoh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was inspired by this book from the first chapter to the last. Anne Poirier’s journey is powerful and incredibly motivating. Her vulnerability and openness make the book feel genuine and trustworthy. I appreciated the practical advice and encouraging tone throughout the book. It helped me realize how much pressure society places on appearance and how important self-acceptance truly is. This book is uplifting without being unrealistic. It encourages readers to heal emotionally while learning to value themselves beyond physical appearance.

[Ziva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book truly changed the way I think about my body and self-worth. Anne Poirier writes with honesty, compassion, and wisdom that makes you feel understood from the very first chapter. I appreciated how the book goes beyond diet culture and focuses on healing emotionally and mentally. The personal stories and practical insights made this an inspiring read that stayed with me long after finishing it. I highly recommend this book to anyone struggling with body image, confidence, or self-criticism. It feels like having a supportive friend guiding you toward peace and healing.

[Stacy Germany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many self-help books, but this one felt deeply personal and relatable. Anne Poirier speaks honestly about the pressure women face regarding weight, appearance, and perfection. What I loved most is that the book doesn’t shame readers or push unrealistic solutions. Instead, it offers hope, healing, and practical ways to build self-compassion. The message is empowering and uplifting. This is a book I will return to again because it reminded me that self-worth is not connected to body size. A must read for every woman.

[Timothy Drown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raw, real, and authentic! Poirier is a fresh voice. Poirier's personal story of struggle and healing offers the reader a glimpse of what life can be like. As she rejects society's thin ideal and embraces a non-diet way of thinking and acting she sets herself and us free. If you want to live a more authentic, energetic, joyful, happier and impactful life read this book. ~ Coach Tim Drown, owner ATP: On-line Nutrition & Fitness Coaching for the 21st Century

[Michelle Hodgson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those rare books that makes you stop, reflect, and rethink years of conditioning. Anne Poirier addresses body image, dieting, and self-esteem with honesty and compassion. I found myself highlighting passages because they spoke directly to experiences I have struggled with for years. Rather than promoting quick fixes, the author focuses on healing, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being. The message is uplifting without feeling unrealistic. By the time I reached the final chapter, I felt encouraged, motivated, and more accepting of myself. This book offers a powerful reminder that happiness does not come from changing your body it comes from changing how you see yourself. An outstanding read.

[Marie Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touched me emotionally in so many ways. Anne Poirier shares her journey with incredible honesty, and I found myself connecting with many of her experiences. The writing feels real and heartfelt, not overly clinical or judgmental. I appreciated the balance between storytelling and actionable advice. The book encourages healing instead of guilt, which is refreshing in today’s world. If you’ve ever struggled with body shame or harsh self-talk, this book can truly help you see yourself differently and begin your healing journey.

[Bionic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book felt like someone finally understood what I had been feeling for years. Anne Poirier writes with so much empathy and honesty that it becomes impossible not to connect with her message. The book is empowering, emotional, and full of wisdom about healing from body shame and self-doubt. I appreciated how relatable the stories were and how practical the mindset tools felt. This is one of the few self-help books that genuinely made me feel hopeful and encouraged. Highly recommended for anyone struggling with self image

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books stay with you long after you finish them, and this is definitely one of those books. Anne Poirier’s message about healing, self-worth, and emotional freedom is powerful and deeply meaningful. I appreciated how relatable and compassionate the writing felt. The book encourages readers to challenge harmful beliefs and practice more self-kindness. I found myself reflecting on many of the lessons even after finishing the final chapter. Highly recommended for anyone wanting emotional growth and encouragement.

[Pulviren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt comforting from start to finish. Anne Poirier writes with so much empathy and honesty that readers can’t help but feel supported and understood. The themes of healing, confidence, and self-worth are presented in such a positive and uplifting way. I especially appreciated the reminder that we deserve kindness from ourselves, not constant criticism. The book is emotional, motivating, and deeply encouraging. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for hope and personal transformation

[Huddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The message in this book is incredibly important, especially in today’s world where so many people struggle with body image and self-esteem. Anne Poirier delivers that message beautifully through personal experiences, thoughtful reflections, and practical advice. I appreciated the compassionate and empowering tone throughout the book. It encourages healing instead of guilt and self acceptance instead of unrealistic expectations. This book is inspiring, relatable, and genuinely helpful. I’m grateful I read it and would highly recommend it to others

[Bohnet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and emotional insight. Anne Poirier shares valuable lessons about confidence, body image, and self compassion that truly resonated with me. I appreciated how approachable and honest the writing felt. The book doesn’t just discuss problems it provides thoughtful guidance toward healing and personal growth. I came away feeling inspired to treat myself with more kindness and understanding. This is an uplifting and empowering read that I would recommend to anyone working on self growth.

[Christy Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book incredibly emotional in the best possible way. Anne Poirier’s honesty and vulnerability make her story powerful and inspiring. The book discusses difficult topics with compassion and hope, which I appreciated deeply. It reminded me that healing is possible and that self-worth is not defined by appearance. The practical guidance throughout the book also makes it useful and encouraging. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone seeking motivation, healing, and self-acceptance.

[Judith Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers such a refreshing alternative to the toxic messages constantly promoted by diet culture. Anne Poirier encourages readers to embrace self-worth, confidence, and healing instead of chasing impossible standards. I loved the positive and supportive tone throughout the book. It felt empowering rather than judgmental. The personal stories added emotional depth and made the message feel genuine. This is a book that can truly help readers shift their mindset and begin building a healthier relationship with themselves.

[Geller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers such a refreshing alternative to the toxic messages constantly promoted by diet culture. Anne Poirier encourages readers to embrace self-worth, confidence, and healing instead of chasing impossible standards. I loved the positive and supportive tone throughout the book. It felt empowering rather than judgmental. The personal stories added emotional depth and made the message feel genuine. This is a book that can truly help readers shift their mindset and begin building a healthier relationship with themselves.

[Dalton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely connect with books this deeply, but The Body Joyful felt incredibly relatable. Anne Poirier shares her experiences honestly, which made the book emotional and impactful. I appreciated how she focused on healing and self-awareness instead of shame or pressure. The writing style is warm, supportive, and easy to understand. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause and reflect on how you treat yourself daily. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking encouragement and emotional healing

[Vincenza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book feels like a healing conversation every woman needs to hear. Anne Poirier speaks openly about body shame, dieting, and emotional struggles in such a relatable way. I appreciated the empowering message about learning to value yourself beyond appearance. The practical reflections and mindset shifts were especially helpful. This book left me feeling encouraged, inspired, and more compassionate toward myself. It’s an important read in today’s world where so many people struggle with unrealistic expectations and self criticism.

[Trish McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Body Joyful is a vulnerable, touching memoir that is an all too familiar story for many women today. Anne Poirier’s journey from her struggles with weight and body image to her failed relationships, eventually leads her to finding a therapist. The “sandbox” conversations in the counselor’s office are required reading as Anne begins to slowly set boundaries and give herself permission to feel deserving. The last part of the book is a step-by-step guide, and ultimately, Anne's gift to you.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read through Anne’s life story, I saw myself in so many similar events and that brought me a deeper understanding of my seeds and roots. This is such an honest look at the struggles around our ingrained thoughts regarding our self esteem and patterns. The helpful “Steps Back” simplify the task of inquiry and bring a sense of peace regarding our roots. Part V brings healthy steps forward to a more joyful life!

[L.V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a marvel. A heavy hitting book that handles delicate topics with grace and poise but without shying away from things that might hurt. I cried a lot reading this book, but they weren’t bad tears. It’s uplifting to know that I am not alone, and it’s empowering to find routes, ways, and words to combat the negative voices in my head. Thank you for being open and vulnerable about sharing your life journey, and letting people know that we aren’t alone.

[Kavovitan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is uplifting, inspiring, and filled with valuable insights about healing and self-worth. Anne Poirier shares practical guidance while also telling her personal story in a heartfelt and relatable way. I appreciated the focus on self-compassion and rejecting unrealistic societal expectations. The book left me feeling encouraged and motivated to change the way I think about myself. It’s an empowering read for anyone struggling with confidence or body image issues.

[Gelmann Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out to me most about this book was how real and honest it felt. Anne Poirier openly shares her personal struggles and growth journey, which makes the message powerful and relatable. I appreciated the focus on emotional healing and rejecting harmful beauty standards. The writing style is compassionate, encouraging, and easy to connect with. This is not just a book about body image it’s about learning to live with more peace, confidence, and self-respect.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up The Body Joyful expecting another book about confidence and self improvement, but what I found was something much deeper. Anne Poirier challenges many of the beliefs we carry about weight, appearance, and self-worth in a compassionate and practical way. Her writing feels genuine, relatable, and free from judgment. What stood out most was the reminder that our value is not determined by a number on a scale or society's expectations. This book encouraged me to treat myself with more kindness and respect. It is inspiring, empowering, and full of wisdom. I highly recommend it to anyone who is tired of self-criticism and ready to embrace a healthier relationship with themselves.