Let’s start first by explaining what body image is and how it matters?
Body image refers to what and how the person thinks and feels about his/her own body. It relates to the belief, attitude and perception that a person carries about their own body. In today’s world, with the growing sense of how a perfect body should be, everybody wants to achieve it, no matter what. This is the reason why there is dissatisfaction about body image among a large proportion of people. Research shows that body image dissatisfaction is there among 70% of today’s population which increases the chances of developing anxiety and depression issues. Body image dissatisfaction often focuses on skin, weight, hair, shape or size of a certain part of a body. Nowadays, people are actually giving more importance to the beauty of the human body. Our Society and social media both are the main culprits behind how a person sees and feels about their own body, height, weight and shape. Body image in a person ranges from positive to negative body image.
When a person has a positive body image-
- He/She knows that their self-worth does not depend on how they look.
- They accept and appreciate the whole of their body the way it is.
- They understand the real meaning of beauty and where it lies in.
- They have a positive attitude of looking at life.
- They carry a great sense of confidence about their body.
When a person has a negative body image-
- They keep comparing themselves with others.
- They lack confidence.
- They feel embarrassed or ashamed about their body.
- When they are with a bunch of people, they feel awkward and uncomfortable about how they look.
- They always think of undergoing cosmetic surgeries and pursuing weight loss habits that are not good for their bodies.
Having a negative body image leads to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Tips for improving body image:
- Have gratitude for what your body can do.
- Surround yourself with people who carry a positive body image.
- Stop comparing yourself with others. If comparison comes to your mind, try focusing on the positive aspects of your body.
- Write down 10 things that you like about your body.
- Don’t trust what the media portrays. Limit your exposure to negativity by limiting the usage or just deleting the apps that make you feel worse about your body.
- Practice positive affirmations everyday.
- Indulge into some activity that makes you feel great and strengthens your body.
- Choose healthy and nutritious food that nourishes your body.
- Practice meditation everyday.
- Appreciate your body for what it is.
- Practice positive self-talk.
- See yourself as a whole person and not just an imperfect body.