PSA: Losing weight does not equal instant positive body image.
A common misconception is that the key to improving your body image lies in changing how your body looks.
Body image is our PERCEPTION of what we look like. It is how we see, think, feel about our bodies and our behaviour as a result of these things. Dieting and exercising may cause your body to change (mostly in the short term...) but these changes can exacerbate the problem of poor body image. We may received positive comments about how we look now vs then - which only reinforces that physical appearance is the most important thing.
Weight loss as a product of dieting is often temporary, so when our body fights back; we feel angry with our bodies for letting us down. This perpetuates than negative thinking to our bodies.
Negative body image plays into everything - the food choices we make, our self esteem, hobbies, career, relationships and can be a risk factor for developing an eating disorder.
When your body image is positive, you are able to accept, appreciate, and respect your body. This doesn’t mean to say you’ll think your body is perfect and flawless, but you’ll be able to acknowledge any insecurities for what they are and believe that your body is perfect for you.
Having a positive body image means freedom; not needing to put all your attention in critiquing your appearance and focusing on all other aspects of your life.
This is not easy by any means; and teaching out for help does not make you weak.
For anyone who is concerned about their body image or food, get in touch with me ali@alisilver.co.uk
#allbodiesaregoodbodies #bodyneutrality #mentalhealthawareness ...
