February 20, 2024
Written By: Shelby Ruman, LPC
What Is Body Positive?
The idea of body positivity is that all bodies, no matter the shape, size, or appearance, are good
bodies. Not all bodies are created the same, but every body is a good body. After all, our bodies
take a beating. Some bodies slip and fall more than others, some bodies create life, some
bodies can build houses, some bodies can run fast and some slow, some bodies make really
good food, and others make really good jokes. The point is all bodies have different attributes
that make them unique. We are so much more than just an appearance to the outside world.
Tips for being body positive.
Avoid Comparisons – everyone has their own journey with their body image, and every
body is different and beautiful in its own ways. Seeing people on social media with the
“perfect” body can be a negative experience. Take time away from social media that
makes you feel not so great, when possible.
Think Healthy Body, And Not Different Body – healthy is more important than appearance.
Remember the phrase – “health is wealth.”
Positive Affirmations – our bodies go through a lot. Bodies have scars, stretch marks,
imperfections, different shapes and sizes, etc. Focus on positives like how your body
has gotten you to present time and all it has endured.
Wear Clothes That Make You Feel Good – wearing things that make you feel good, and
things that make you feel comfortable.
Challenge Negative Thoughts – focus on what you do like about your body, not
what you don’t like. Practice building yourself up, not knocking yourself down.
Look At Your WHOLE Person – our bodies do not define who we are, we are so much
more than our appearance.
Do Something Nice For Yourself – find time to do things you love. This can include
hobbies, a good nap, a good book, playing your favorite game, making/getting your
favorite meal etc.
Resources For Body Positivity
Here is a great positive resource with some helpful tips on how to help yourself if you’re
struggling with body positivity, as well as how to help others who are struggling. This site
is full of positivity and empowerment!
“We founded The Body Positive in 1996 because of our shared passion to create a
lively, healing community that offers freedom from suffocating societal messages that
keep people in a perpetual struggle with their bodies.” (Thebodypositive.org)
Body Image: Resources for Teens and Parents | Joon Teletherapy
This site offers links to a variety of positive body social media influencers pages, as well
as a few other resources that focus on health and body positivity!
“We’re a student-led non-profit organization advocating for the acceptance,
representation, and equity of all bodies regardless of physical ability, size, gender, race,
or appearance.”(Body Positive Alliance)
Remember – no one journey in life is the same, therefore no BODY is the same. If you feel you would benefit from talking to someone about potential body image concerns, please click here.
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