Loving and accepting your body is an essential part of staying body positive. Body image is a combination of how you feel about yourself and how you believe other people see you. It is important to understand that your relationship with your body image can impact both physical and mental health.
In recent years, the body positivity movement has been making waves in the press and on social media. A number of body positivity influencers have been vocal about the negative impact of the perceived beauty standards on mental health. The fashion industry in particular has seen a significant change and is slowly becoming more inclusive. A growing number of fashion brands are now joining the body positivity movement and promoting body acceptance.
Want to know how to make the most of your image? Then, follow on for Body Positivity: 5 Ways to Be More Body Positive!
An estimated nine in 10 (87%) people think that those who are better looking are treated more favourably in today’s society. The pressure to look a certain way results in many peoples’ desire to dramatically change their appearances.
A recent study by the sport nutrition company Bulk revealed that an alarming number of people are searching for body editing apps. The rise of body editing apps and filters available contributes to setting unrealistic standards, which in turn can lower self-esteem and even fuel mental health disorders.
1. Exercise Regularly
Working out not only helps you improve your physical health, it can also give you a sense of achievement and improve your mental health. Multiple studies suggest that in addition to boosting self-esteem, exercising three to five times a week can also decrease symptoms of depression and other mental health disorders.
2. Meditate
Through meditation, you can give yourself a sense of peace and balance that can improve both your emotional state and overall health. By practicing meditation, you have a chance to manage negative thoughts, refocus your attention on something positive, and cultivate a more accepting and positive relationship with your body.
3. Try Not to Compare Yourself to Others
Many of us compare ourselves to others without even realizing it, which can negatively impact our mental health and body image. Try to accept that we are all different and beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Comparing yourself to others can leave you feeling anxious and frustrated. Instead, focus on positive pursuits and self-care.
4. Where Possible, Eliminate Negativity from Your Life
Whether it’s people in your friendship circle who spread negativity or toxic social media accounts that fuel body confidence issues, they should go. Heavily edited images and negative people in your life can contribute to negative thoughts and cultivate insecurities.
Try to cut out the negativity and start following people on social media people who practice self-love and encourage body positivity.
5. Make a List of Things You Love About Yourself
Many people want to change things about themselves – but often that’s not what you should focus on. Start building positive thoughts by writing down a list of things you love about yourself or traits that others admire about you.
Try focusing on aspects of yourself that are not related to your appearance like compassion, kindness and creativity. What do you think about your own body image? Let us know in the comments below and on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
