In this constant struggle and battle to perfect ourselves, we almost tend to lose our unique selves in the long run. Having a positive body image is a hard thing to define, but most people struggle with this, and it is an essential part of an individual’s self-esteem. Girls often feel the immense pressure of looking attractive and their constant quest of finding the perfect appearance or body gets them lost in this vast wide world.
Studies have shown that girls who often watch beautiful women on television or in magazines are most likely to develop negative body image. They become obsessed with the way their idol looks and decide to go on a diet even if their body does not require it. Being too skinny or too fat is an issue with most of the adolescent girls and coming out of this definition of perfection seems to be quite tough.
Having a healthy body image in a society where it is normal to come under peer pressure and casually put oneself down seems next to impossible. But here in this article, we will share with you some tips which will help you get your self-esteem and confidence back.
#1 Learn the Truth About Media
Whatever you see on the television or in the magazines you must know that they are manipulated and deconstructed and are reconstructed before being presented to you. Instead of being obsessed with your idols, you should learn how your idol is created to look like the way she is possibly looking. Studies show that girls who are aware of the fact that the photographs of their favorite celebs are often manipulated before being presented to them have more positive and healthy body image.
#2 Be Practical and Aware of Your Appearance
It is mainly for those girls who are the victims of extreme obsession. Most women are of the notion that their perfect body type is that of the supermodels and athletes. They are so engrossed with their looks that they tend to work day in and day out achieving that “perfect body.” And when they fail, they get aggressive and even start blaming themselves for not working extra hard to achieve the look. But what you should understand is your own body type.
Having dreams and aspirations is a good thing. You can work on your body if you are overweight or underweight. But you cannot miraculously then yourself into a tall, lean supermodel if you are just curvy and petite. Having a knowledge about your in body and trying to perfect that in whatever way you think is required will enable you to have a healthy body image.
#3 Appreciate Yourself
If your world continually revolves around your weight, looks, and figure then, girl, you are in so much trouble. Trying shifting your focus from your outward appearance to your inner appearance. Try to appreciate yourself about how a wonderful person you are, be it a good friend, a good daughter or anything else.
Instead of focusing on the things you don’t have, or rather you cannot have, focus on the things that you have and try perfecting them. Appreciating your good qualities will enable you to love yourself just the way you are, and then weight and age will only be a number.
#4 Stand Tall Against Body Shaming
Body shaming is quite a big issue in India. Whether you are skinny or chubby, you will always be trolled. Not only are these comments demeaning but extremely hurtful.
So instead of trying to be perfect for everyone, try to be perfect for yourself and shut out the comments on body shaming. No one has the right to comment on the way you look. It is easy to get motivated and dissatisfied, but if you are in love with yourself, no one else matters. And as far as fitting in is concerned no place is good enough for you if they cannot accept you the way you are.
#5 Thank Your Body for Everything It Can Do
Stop blaming yourself and ruining your life by thinking about the things you cannot do. Instead, take time to appreciate your body about the things that you can do. God has made you a complete package. He has given your hands, legs, sensory organs, and every other thing required to be healthy and happy.
Instead of comparing yourselves with the supermodels, try comparing yourself with the disabled people. They might not have all the physical attributes that you have but try have strong will power and determination, which makes them stronger. So, learn a lesson from them and are made your body while you are running, breathing, eating, sleeping, and everything else.
#6 True Beauty Lies Within
It is true that “beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.” So, if you don’t love the way you are don’t expect others to do the same for you. Beauty is a state if the mind and not a state if the body. So, when you feel good and beautiful in your own body, you will automatically gain confidence, and your self-esteem will be boosted. Your openness and self-acceptance are what makes you attractive. So, when you feel confident about the way you carry yourself, others will automatically fall in love with you.
#7 Have A Group of Positive People
If you surround yourself with friends and people who always put you down due to your body shape or weight, it is high time to banish those people from existing anywhere around you.
Surround yourself with people you will appreciate the person you are with whom you will be able to feel and act yourself. These people will enable you to feel good about yourself, and gradually, you will develop a liking towards yourself. It is vital when it comes to developing a healthy and positive body image.
#8 Wear Clothes That Flatter
It is time to change the habit of randomly picking up clothes and then not wearing them more than once. Every person on this earth has a different body type and shape.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand your body type to choose clothes which will flatter your body. There are millions of videos on the internet, which will help you to determine your body type. For example, if you are skinny, then bodycon dresses will really flatter your body as opposed to people with curvy body types. They should choose more of a fit and flare dress to compliment them.
#9 Choose A Flattering Hairstyle
Hair also plays a significant role when it comes to having a healthy body image. We are all familiar with bad and good hair day, but the significance of it is more profound than it sounds. Having healthy hair is associated with royalty and it often signifies femininity, and sensuality of a woman. If you have used most of your time trying to perfect your looks and body completely neglecting your hair, it is time to invest some of your precious time on your hair as well. A perfect hairstyle enhances your overall appearance making you kook more polished and put together. If you are plus size, then choose hairstyles according to your face type and something that will lift your face instead of pulling it down.
#10 Pamper Yourself
Having some me-time is very important when you are striving to establish a healthy body image. In this boring and mundane routine of ours, most of the time is used up in pleasing others. We completely forget about ourselves. In these cases, pampering oneself is a great way to deal with stress and also to feel alive and awake. Try anything that makes you happy be it an elaborate shower routine, or taking a nap amidst relaxing candles or even going out someplace to feel relaxed. This will instantly lift your senses and will make you feel good about yourself.
#11 Watch Your Diet and Include Exercise
Nothing happens overnight. Everything requires hard work and perseverance. Watching what you eat and exercising can regulate your bodily issues and can feel your weight under check. No matter what is your shape and size is, eating and leading a healthy lifestyle can go a long way when it comes to maintaining a healthy body image.
Conclusion
Negative body image can lead to stress, depression, and also eating disorders. Therefore, it is very important to follow these steps to maintain a healthy and positive body image.
About the Author
Mariyam is a beauty and lifestyle blogger at The Beautyholic. Blessed with a knack of writing, she has been blogging for more than four years and still going strong. In her pastime, she loves cuddling with her pets, watching movies and reading online articles about beauty, spirituality, and lifestyle.