Unless you’ve been on a serious social media cleanse for the last couple of years, you’ve probably been exposed to the Body Positive Movement in some capacity. A quick internet search for “body positivity” brings countless articles, videos, images and social media accounts aimed at challenging beauty standards and helping people adopt a more forgiving and accepting attitude toward their bodies. Still, it can be difficult to figure out how exactly to be more body positive—to both yourself and others. Here are six ways you can be more body positive in your everyday life:
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Challenge yourself to identify the things you love and appreciate about your body. It’s easy to step in front of the mirror and to begin noting all of your perceived flaws. However, your body is so much more than just something to look at. Remind yourself of all of the amazing things your body lets you do: Writing, running, singing, dancing, etc.
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Show your body some love. Treat your body to a relaxing shower or bath, go for a walk, do yoga, get a massage or wear clothes that are comfortable. Take time to appreciate and care for your body.
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Allow your body to be a tool to living your life, rather than an obstacle. Want to go swimming with your friends? Do it. Waiting to do things until you have the “right body” only prevents you from living your life.
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Stop making judgments about your, or anyone else’s, physical appearance. This is true for both insults and compliments. It’s easier to see how negative judgments about your or someone else’s body goes against the body positive movement. However, positive evaluations (e.g. “You look so great. Have you lost weight?) can also be problematic because they tend to suggest some sort of ideal. Try to comment on something not related to appearance instead. For instance, you might commend a friend’s hard work in the gym recently as opposed to how much weight’s she lost or how she looks.
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Continue to educate yourself on body positivity. Learning to be more body positive is a process that takes time. There are lots of great resources out there for body image, as well as disordered eating. The Body Positive and NEDA are two great resources, but there are many others out there as well.
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Ask for help if needed. If you struggle with poor body image and find that it’s interfering with your mood or day-to-day life, ask for help. Counseling and Prevention Services is your on-campus resource. We offer a wide variety of services, including individual and group counseling at a low cost. Stop by the Student Wellness Center located inside the Steve Clark YMCA building or call us (316) 978-4792 to make an appointment.