Embracing the long road of self-love and body image is an integral aspect of our self-perception and confidence. It plays a significant role in shaping our overall mental and emotional well-being. However, in today’s world, with the constant bombardment of unrealistic beauty standards, it’s easy to feel dissatisfied with our bodies.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to cultivate a positive body image and embrace loving yourself, body and all.
- Recognize and Challenge Negative Thoughts: The first step towards improving body image is to become aware of negative thoughts or self-criticisms. Take note of any disparaging remarks you make about yourself and challenge their validity. Replace them with more positive and affirming statements. Remember that nobody is perfect, and imperfections are what make us unique and beautiful.
- Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Be mindful of the media you consume and the people you interact with. Surround yourself with positive influences that promote body acceptance and diversity. Unfollow social media accounts that make you feel inadequate and follow body-positive advocates who celebrate all body types.
- Focus on What Your Body Can Do: Shift the focus from appearance to functionality. Celebrate your body’s capabilities and all the amazing things it enables you to do. Engage in physical activities that you enjoy, emphasizing the joy of movement rather than calorie-burning or weight loss.
- Practice Self-Care and Nourishment: Nourish your body with balanced, nutritious meals that promote well-being. Avoid restrictive diets and embrace mindful eating. Treat yourself with compassion and indulge in self-care activities that make you feel good, whether it’s a warm bath, a soothing massage, or spending quality time with loved ones.
- Challenge Beauty Ideals and Stereotypes: Recognize that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Challenge conventional beauty ideals and stereotypes by appreciating the diversity of appearances. Understand that societal standards often create unrealistic expectations, which are not representative of reality.
- Cultivate a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or support groups that promote body positivity. Engage in open conversations about body image and share your experiences. You’ll realize that many others share similar feelings, and together, you can uplift each other.
- Set Realistic Goals: If you wish to make lifestyle changes, set realistic and achievable goals that are not solely focused on appearance. Aim for overall well-being, improved strength, or enhanced flexibility. Celebrate every milestone you reach, no matter how small it may seem.
- Seek Professional Help: If negative body image starts affecting your mental health and daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists, counselors, or support groups specialized in body image issues can provide valuable guidance and emotional support.
Improving body image is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to challenge societal norms.
Once I started practicing daily positive affirmations, slowed down my exercise regimen, I finally started to have compassion for myself. By adopting these practical steps, you can gradually build a healthier relationship with your body and foster a more positive self-image and mindset.
Remember that everybody is unique and deserves to be loved, respected, and appreciated for all the wonderful things it can do. Embrace your individuality.
Nikki Lanigan
Nikki Lanigan is a yoga, HIIT, and Barre instructor, she is also a Holistic Health Coach through Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Nikki is trained in Yoga Shred, Yoga Psychology, meditation, chakra balancing, and EFT/Tapping. She has done trainings with Sadie Nardini and Ashley Turner. She got her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2017 at the Carrie Treister School Of Yoga. Nikki takes a holistic view of health, helping her students and clients reach a place of self-love not just through movement, but with mindset and lifestyle guidance as well. Nikki is also show prep writer for The McVay Media Show Prep and host of the podcast Fit, Fun, and Frazzled. Connect with Nikki on Instagram. www.instagram.com/nikkilanigan.yogaandwellness www.instagram.com/fitfunandfrazzledpodcast
