There’s no such thing as having the perfect body.
Body dissatisfaction is having a negative perception of one’s own body size and shape. Body dissatisfaction can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. It can cause low self-esteem and eating disorders. Other factors include social comparison, internalization of the thin ideal, self- objectification, and low self-efficacy.
Body positivity is measured by how you feel inside rather than how you look.
Body positivity isn’t about achieving the perfect body it’s about feeling good and healthy. It’s learning to love yourself and embrace your body image. It’s being comfortable in our bodies even if they do not conform to societal ideals and unrealistic expectations.
Body positivity is:
Being comfortable in your own skin
Celebrating all body types
Appreciating your body for what it does- move, sleep, sex, etc.
Making positive changes because you want to, and not because society wants you too.
Body positivity is NOT:
Achieving the perfect body
Body positivity empowers us to make positive changes to our image because it feels right. Having a positive body image is praising your body for what it can do, rather than what it looks like.
BODY POSITIVITY TIPS
- Stop comparing yourself to others
Do not compare your body to others. Everybody is different and beautiful in their own way. Celebrate your body, don’t shame it for having unique features. Studies have shown that when women compare their image to other women, it lowers their body satisfaction.
- Stop trying to achieve an unrealistic body
Focus on feeling good and being healthy, rather than obtaining the perfect body figure. There’s no such thing. All shapes and sizes are beautiful in their own way.
- Appreciate your body
Being grateful for your bodily functions. Focusing on everything the body does rather than how it looks. Focusing on aspects such as health, physical, and senses.
- Love your body as is.
Don’t view your body as an object. Embracing your flaws, and loving your body. Being kind and mindful of your body and learning to be comfortable with it.
- Taking care of your body
Practicing self-care by nourishing your body, being active, and drinking water. Eating well.