Body Image

I think it is a common misconception that to struggle with body image means you either have to be overweight or have a distorted body image. This refers to an unrealistic view of how someone sees their body, take for example an eating disorder.

In actual reality Body image simply refers to how people see themselves. When you look into the mirror, you notice the changes in your body as a result of; ageing, puberty, diet, pregnancy, bloating, hormones, exercise, how active you are, etc.

I believe that struggling with the body is normal because it affects everybody at some point in their life. Change is never easy. Our bodies do change. Getting used to the way that our bodies change over time can be difficult for some. Especially, at times in your life when your hormones go crazy resulting in drastic changes. Changes like puberty or pregnancy or menopause or PMS.

The changes that can make the struggle with body image SO Much is those we do not expect in contrast to seeing fine lines and grey hair appear over time. But change that sneaks upon us and shocks us because it is there to stay like the visible signs of ill health or an accident.

Another factor that can make the struggle of body image so much worse is when your body change involves other factors such as money. Money for buying a new wardrobe or having several different sized bras to get you through your period cycle. This is because your boobs decide to double in size one second and become as flat as a pancake the next. Body changes that are out of your control when money is tight can add to the stress.

For me it was my hips spreading so wide, in my opinion too wide for my body frame. I just did not like them at first, despite the fact they are considered to be attractive and a symbol of fertility.

I believe the struggle with body image affects everyone at some point in their life and it is normal. In saying this what is most important is how you decide to deal with those struggles.

It is never okay for someone to abuse you by saying negative words or actions. Nor for you to abuse your body by talking negatively about yourself or actions. Dealing with the struggles of body image starts in the mind. It is becoming your best friend and realising that your body shows up for you everyday, does something magical for you in that moment. It is loyal and is there for you even when it is sick. It is taking a moment to have self-compassion. That intern allows us to strive for self acceptance and growth.

Accepting your body the way that it is the next step and the step after that is then loving and respecting your body because it deserves your unconditional love and respect. Constantly choosing to love yourself over time, as our bodies change helps us to invest in ourselves. This in turn helps us to make informed choices around our body changes. How empowering is that? We may not like the look of a body change at first. Choosing to learn about our bodies and love our bodies unconditionally no matter what place we are in life, Is turning up for yourself and choosing to become that safe space for you. Thus enabling you to choose to be a whole person in that moment.

For me loving my body means making sure it has what it needs nutritionally, when it comes to sleep and movement. Looking after the health of my body is a way of respecting myself. Listening to my body is another way of respect. Looking after my mental wellbeing and mental health is another way of loving my body.

What does loving and respecting your body look like ?

References

- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/

- https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/7-billion-brains/202003/our-collective-mental-well-being

- https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/rethink-your-way-the-good-life/202001/20-ways-protect-your-mental-health