Building a Healthy Body Image One Step at a Time

One of the biggest problems in today’s society is body positivity. The media and social media have a huge impact on how we perceive our bodies. We see pictures on Instagram, in ads and on TV telling us that we are not good enough because of the beauty standards set by society. Yes, of course we are starting to see more diversity and inclusivity showcased at the forefront but we are still far from an ideal representation. 

How you feel about your body is an important factor in your overall well-being. When you start feeling bad about yourself, it can affect your mood and also your relationships with others.

Benefits of Achieving a Healthy Body Image

When it comes to our health, we often think about the food we put into our bodies and the exercise we do to stay fit. However, body image is just as important when it comes to our overall health. Achieving a healthy body image is not just about what you see in the mirror. It is about facing the reality that you are beautiful and strong despite any physical flaws, no matter how big or small they may be. When you have a positive body image, you feel better about yourself and your life. You’re more likely to take care of yourself and make healthy choices. You may also have better relationships and be more successful in your career. Those are the amazing ripple effects! 

A positive body image is good for your physical health too. When you feel good about your body, you’re more likely to exercise and eat healthy foods. This can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing health problems. Say it with me, “it’s good to feel good!”

Tips For Building A Positive Self-Image

Achieving a positive self-image can be difficult. It can be especially hard if you don’t have any family members, or friends around you who are encouraging you to love yourself. But just because there are people in your life who may not support your self-love doesn’t mean you’re powerless to change the situation! 

Self-image is the mental picture you have of yourself. It’s based on your beliefs, thoughts and opinions about yourself. Your self-image affects everything you do and how you interact with the world around you. If you have a positive self-image, you are more likely to be happy and successful. On the other hand, if you have a negative self-image, you are more likely to be unhappy and unsuccessful. There are many things you can do to build a positive self-image. 

Here are my top three tips:

1. Mirror Talk: When was the last time you looked at yourself in the mirror and said to yourself “I love you”? If you’ve never done it before, it’s going to feel really uncomfortable. But in order for you to get comfortable with how you feel about yourself and how to see yourself, you need to get uncomfortable. The more you practice this, the more you will begin to fall in love with yourself – in a healthy way.
2. Get into receiver mode: If somebody compliments you, is your first reaction to deflect and compliment them right back? Allow yourself to fully receive any compliments or well wishes. Your subconscious will begin to absorb these in a way that can create self-worth because you are welcoming those compliments with open arms. Try it. The next time you receive a compliment, simply say “thank you”. 
3. Be aware of judgment: Notice how often you judge others. Whether you think they are better than you or you are better than them, your mind picks up on this judgment. Once aware of a moment of judgment, take the opportunity to explore perhaps you felt the need to judge. Unpack those feelings, process them and let them go. Judgment usually comes from our own internal projections.

I hope that by following these simple tips, you will be on your way to a more positive body image. Remember, it’s important to be kind to yourself, and to take things one step at a time. 

Read more about Living in Receiving Mode or visit Miracle Mindset Coaching.