Cultivating a Healthy Body Image
Are you happy with the body you live in? Do you tend to worry about what you look like? Do you often criticize your appearance? These are all questions related to body image.
Body image refers to your personal relationship with your body, not what you actually look like. It is connected to your beliefs, perceptions, feelings, thoughts, and actions surrounding your physical appearance. It’s more challenging to accept yourself when you have difficulty liking your physical looks. Body dissatisfaction is a common problem; in fact, millions of people struggle with body dissatisfaction or issues with body image.
There is good news though! An unsatisfying or negative body image can be changed to a positive one. There are ways to achieve self-acceptance. Here are some tips you can use to work towards a healthier body image…
Create a list of ten things you like about yourself—things that aren’t related to how much you weigh or what you look like. Maybe you like your laugh, your karaoke skills, or how you’re a good friend. Keep your list on your phone or in a journal, and read it over often. Add to your list as you become aware of more things that you like about yourself.
Appreciate everything that your body is capable of. Our bodies do so much that we don’t even realize! They allow us to get to work, to relax with family, and to do activities that we enjoy. Celebrate all of the amazing things your body does for you—running, dancing, breathing, laughing, etc. Take a minute or two every day to appreciate what your body is able to accomplish.
Do something nice for yourself—something that lets your body know how much you appreciate it. Take a bubble bath, make time for a much-needed nap, or find a peaceful place outside to relax. Treat yourself by giving your mind and body time to unwind and recharge.
Look at yourself as a whole person. When you see yourself in a mirror or in your mind, choose not to focus on specific body parts. Don’t fixate on areas of your body that you don’t like as much. You are not just that one part of you. See yourself as you want others to see you—as a whole person.
Surround yourself with positive people. It is easier to feel good about yourself and your body when you are around others who are supportive. Spend time with people who recognize the importance of liking yourself as you naturally are. Avoid spending too much time with people who might pull you into a negative mindset.
Be mindful of what you wear by wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable. Choose to dress in what makes you feel good about your body. Work with your body, not against it. Use your wardrobe as a tool to increase your confidence and your appreciation for your body.
Your relationship with your body is important. You only have one body; you might as well be content with it. Of course, cultivating a healthy relationship with your body takes time. There are many ways to practice kindness towards yourself, so that you can nurture a positive body image.
It is also important to understand that there is a difference between body dissatisfaction and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). When someone struggles with BDD, there is a more severe preoccupation with one’s looks; someone may go to extreme lengths in order to try and “correct” parts of their body that they are dissatisfied with. If you feel you may be struggling with more than body dissatisfaction, consider seeking out a mental health professional who specializes in BDD. They can help you work on making peace with yourself and appreciating your body as it is.