How To Be Body Positive.

The pursuit of body positivity requires real courage in a society that constantly reminds us that we are not necessarily slim, but somewhat overweight, thin, smooth, youthful, or something else. However, body positivity is not merely about appreciating everything you see in the mirror every day. It goes beyond that. It’s all about learning to love, value, and treat your body with kindness, even on the worst days. There is a change from continuous self-criticism to extreme self-compassion. The reality is that this does not occur suddenly.  Body positivity is a lifelong process for many of us, including overcoming years of negative messaging, unattainable beauty ideals, and that inner voice that tells us we are not “enough.” Therefore, where do you begin? You start by being truthful about where you are. Perhaps you’re not in love with your reflection at the moment. That’s all right. You must establish confidence rather than compel it. And it all starts with how you treat yourself. Do you tell your friends what you think of your body? It’s time to switch the topic if the answer is no. Ignoring your insecurities or acting as if you don’t have days when you feel at ease in your skin is not what it means to be body positive. It entails letting yourself experience those emotions without guilt.

“I feel bloated today, but that doesn’t mean I’m unworthy,” or “I don’t like how I look in this outfit, but I still deserve to show up in the world,” is what it means. Body positivity is about appreciating oneself rather than aiming for perfection. It’s about permission, the freedom to be yourself. To consume the cuisine you like without feeling bad about it. Wear the clothes you enjoy, no matter your size. Do not be afraid to take up space. To take a break, even if you don’t “earn” it by burning calories. Choosing self-care over self-punishment is what it’s all about. On your path to body positivity, one of the most effective actions you can take is to choose your surroundings. You can begin by clearing up your social media feed. Anyone who makes you feel inferior should be unfollowed. Follow individuals who resemble you, live your life, and express your self-love. Representation is important, and seeing a variety of bodies honored may be therapeutic in ways you weren’t aware you needed. Find individuals who will back your development and respect your path. Individuals who refrain from making remarks about your physical appearance or that of others. Those who remind you that who you are is more important than how you appear. It also helps you concentrate on the function rather than the look. Ask, “What has my body done for me today?” rather than “How does my body look today?” Did it get you through a difficult day at work? Did it allow you to embrace someone you love?

Will it enable you to dance, breathe, laugh, and cry? Your body is more than just a sight; it is a living, breathing entity that has supported you through every stage of your life. Just for that, it merits appreciation. And lastly, be kind to yourself. It is normal not to have a positive body image every day. The goal is not unwavering confidence. It is compassion. It’s learning to temper the tone of your inner arbiter and boost the voice of your internal buddy. It’s making room for your anxieties while not allowing them to define who you are. It’s about asserting, “I am worthy right now—not when I lose 10 pounds, not when my skin clears up, not when I look like her—but right now, in this body.” Yes, I see the eyes rolling at me saying it is easier said than done but listen, regardless of where you are in your path, keep this in mind: body positivity is not about reaching an ideal destination; rather, it is about rediscovering your connection with yourself, one idea, one moment, one breath at a time. To love your body, you don’t need to alter it. You must adjust the way you perceive your body. And once you begin to view it with empathy, everything else starts to change.