Looking in the mirror is a task that is an integral part of the day. Studies show that on average, a person looks in the mirror 8 times a day. But the question here is, do you like what you see in the mirror?
How you can deal with body image issues
Your body image affects your self-esteem and can even affect your overall health. People come in all shapes and sizes. While some people may like what they look like, other people might not.
Why do people not like their bodies?
Ever since childhood, we have been exposed to the idealization of flawlessness in humans. The way media advertises people, like women having a small waist, full lips, big breasts, toned limbs, clear skin, and bodies considered to be perfect overall, makes young girls perceive it to be the definition of attractiveness.
Not just women, the way media idealizes men’s bodies can have young boys live under the impression that something is wrong with how they look.
Furthermore, Unsolicited nonchalant remarks about being “too skinny”, “too chubby”, “too dark”, or comments like “Your nose is so weird”, can generate feelings of insecurity. Usually, these remarks cause a lot more damage when coming from someone close, like a friend, family member, or a relative. Sometimes, these feelings can be a direct result of being bullied as well.
This sense of insecurity can further intensify feelings of self-hatred and thus lower one’s self-esteem.
Even though there are tons of quotes, blogs, and video content available on the internet implying that ‘you are beautiful just the way you are’, young people, especially teens, still suffer from body image issues.
5 Effective ways to deal with body image issues
Address the problem (if any)
If you happen to have a medical issue that happens to be giving you a distorted image of your body, then get it checked. Going for a checkup will help you find out if you have a medical condition and allow you to take the necessary steps.
“You” are not your body
When you attach your sense of self with the idea of your body, anything seeming off is bound to make you feel inadequate about yourself. Your body is not “you”, it is but a tool. The body is a tool that helps you go places and do things. You control your body, it doesn’t control you.
Focus on improvement
If you wish to change some aspect of your body that improves your health, like, losing or gaining some extra pounds to maintain a proper BMI, work upon that. You need to make sure that the most important tool you have- that is, your body, is in good shape. Also, it will help you feel better about yourself when you work towards better. For example, go for a run to improve your weight, eat healthy to get better skin.
Talk to someone about it
Talking can do a lot more than you give it credit for. Talk about it to someone you trust. Sharing your problem will allow you to get the weight off your chest. If you think that you might need professional help, talk to a certified therapist.
Practice positive self talk
The most damaging thing anyone with a negative body image does is negative self-talk. Try using positive self-talk. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a friend in need of your help. Practice emotional hygiene.
If you liked 5 Effective ways to deal with body image issues, also read 5 Powerful tips to declutter your mind and improve focus
