The War on Body Image: How to Take Back What's Yours

When you hear the phrase “body image” what comes to mind for you? Or maybe it’s a feeling that encompasses you? In a world where societal standards often dictate beauty norms, the concept of body image has become increasingly relevant, especially with the influx of different mediums we can consume content related to body image. 

Body image refers to the perception one has of their own physical appearance and how they feel about it. It encompasses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to one's body size, shape, and overall appearance. While society's influence is undeniable, fostering a healthy body image is crucial for overall well-being.

What is a Healthy Body Image?

Healthy body image involves accepting and appreciating your body for its unique qualities. It is about understanding that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, transcending the unrealistic ideals perpetuated by media and cultural standards. A person with a healthy body image feels comfortable in their own skin, regardless of societal expectations; they can detach any judgment about their intrinsic personhood from their outward appearance. 

Influences on Body Image

Various factors contribute to the formation of body image, both positively and negatively. Media plays a significant role, with airbrushed images and unrealistic beauty standards bombarding us from every angle. Peer pressure, family expectations, and cultural ideals also contribute to shaping our perception of our bodies. It's crucial to recognize these influences and work towards cultivating a mindset that values authenticity and individuality. Have you noticed in this discussion so far, that body image and its issues are centered around a person - it does not discriminate between genders.

Practical Self-Help Steps at Home

Building a positive self-image is an ongoing process that requires self-reflection, self-compassion, and intentional actions. Here are some practical self-help steps you can take at home to foster a positive image:

Practice Self-Compassion:

• Begin by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend. Be mindful of negative self-talk and replace it with affirming and empowering statements that you already believe about yourself or would like to believe about yourself. If you find this challenging, be kind to yourself. Sometimes the first step is just bringing awareness to the criticism and labeling the experience without judging yourself for doing it. The more you do this, the easier it becomes to catch yourself criticizing and choose to replace it with something more helpful. 

Challenge Unrealistic Beauty Standards:

• Consciously challenge societal norms by diversifying your media consumption. Follow body-positive influencers, engage with content that celebrates diverse bodies, and remind yourself that beauty is subjective and multifaceted. Or, sometimes, intentionally doing a “social media cleanse” can boost your momentum of mindful consumption of content. 

Focus on Health, Not Size:

• Shift your perspective from achieving a specific body size to prioritizing overall health and well-being. Engage in activities that make you feel good, nourish your body with balanced meals, and exercise for enjoyment rather than solely for appearance.

Surround Yourself with Positive Influences:

• Cultivate a supportive social circle that values and uplifts you for who you are. Avoid toxic relationships that contribute to negative body image and seek connections with those who encourage self-acceptance.

Celebrate Achievements Beyond Appearance:

• Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, talents, and qualities that go beyond physical appearance. Recognize that your worth extends far beyond your external attributes.

Mindful Practices:

• Engage in mindfulness activities such as meditation or yoga to reconnect with your body on a deeper level. This can help build a positive relationship between your mind and body, fostering a sense of unity and acceptance.

When to Seek Help with Body Image Issues

Recognizing when to seek help with body image issues is essential for mental and emotional well-being. If negative thoughts about your body interfere with daily life, lead to low self-esteem, or contribute to unhealthy behaviors such as disordered eating (for example, under-eating like skipping meals or only having small meals/snacks, overeating, purging via excess exercise, vomiting or laxatives) it's time to seek professional assistance. Therapists and support groups specialize in addressing body image concerns, providing the necessary tools for self-discovery and acceptance.

Begin Counseling in Tigard, OR

Cultivating a positive body image can be much easier said than done. This is why our team of caring therapists is happy to offer a supportive and understanding environment while you address the body image concerns affecting you most. Start your therapy journey with Discover Counseling by following these simple steps:

• Contact us to learn more about how Discover Counseling can help
• Schedule your first counseling appointment with our team
• Start nurturing your child’s well-being!

Other Services Offered with Discover Counseling

We are happy to offer support with a variety of services at Discover Counseling. Mental health services offered include therapy for stress and anxiety. addiction treatment, trauma therapy, and family and relationship counseling. We also offer child therapy, marriage and couples therapy, divorce/discernment counseling, birth trauma and postpartum counseling, and Christian counseling. Visit our blog for more helpful info today!