Redefining Body Image
As someone who has struggled with body image, I believe that everyone on Earth questions their appearance at some point. Even those who seem to embody physical perfection have moments of doubt, wondering if they’re “enough.”
Body image, to me, is how you perceive your own body. When you look in the mirror, do you first notice your strength and health, or do you immediately focus on perceived flaws? Your reaction reveals whether you have a positive, negative, or neutral body image.
Personally, my view is complicated. When I see myself, I think I’m too fat. I wish my thighs were smaller. I like my butt. If my calves were smaller, I could buy cooler boots. My arms are too large. I like my breasts. My stomach is too big for tight shirts or dresses. I appreciate my tapered waist.
This mix of positives and negatives results in an overall negative body image, shaped by social expectations and others’ comments. I’ve given away the power over my own body image, judging my health by my size rather than how well my body serves me daily.
Society’s beauty standards often forget how artificial celebrity and influencer appearances can be. We value certain physical attributes without considering their relation to health. It’s all aesthetics.
At a certain point, excessive weight does become unhealthy. Currently, I’m not in that category. My bloodwork and checkups are good, partly due to my age (30s isn’t old!) and partly because I eat and move “okay” – though I know I could improve.
This journey is about becoming my best self, not conforming to others’ expectations. True health isn’t about being skinnier, but stronger from the inside out. Even if I could magically achieve my ideal physique, I’d likely still fixate on tiny flaws because that’s what I’ve learned to do.
A positive body image starts in the mind. Focusing solely on appearance while neglecting health can lead to depression and anxiety. Instead, I should appreciate my body’s strength – how it enables me to move, create, help my family, travel, and be present for loved ones.
My job is to support my body by providing proper nutrition, consistent exercise, and adequate sleep. These habits will help me show up better for myself and others. Even if my body isn’t at its optimal point now, I can still be proud of it and myself.
Balancing body image with true health is challenging, especially in a society that values specific beauty standards. We need to care less about ideals and more about our actual selves.
As I continue this journey, my body will likely change. But I need to focus on becoming stronger, not on reaching a specific number on the scale. I’ll concentrate on improving my daily life, finding clothes that highlight my body positively, and viewing my flaws with gratitude instead of disdain. Slowly but surely, I’ll build a positive relationship with my body and its image.
When did you first realize that you might have a negative body image?
