Before you read any further, I want you to think about the way you break down your body for the way it “LOOKS” right now and consider this..
“None of the supposed flaws would be of concern if we valued those parts of our bodies for the function they serve, and how we experience them from inside ourselves.”
Take a minute with that. Really let it sink in. What comes to mind?
The truth is, media has done a really great job at objectifying women for years now. We have been conditioned to see ourselves as a set of features, some of which apparently “need fixing.”
We’re surrounded by messages that try to sell us a problem to fix, from “miracle” products promising to make parts of us smoother or firmer, to altered images showing impossible standards.
In movies and shows, if a bigger body does appear, it’s often shown in a negative or stereotyped light. Even brands that push “real beauty” are often selling something that implies we need changing. This culture has manipulated us into thinking that our bodies are meant to be edited to please others, to “fit in” to a mold that frankly, doesn’t even exist in real life.
We are SO much more than the sum of “flaws” we’ve been taught to see.
Unfortunately, things around us that shape our perception won’t collectively change overnight. But you can have a profound impact on the way you perceive yourself in such a small amount of time.
Imagine if we spent the hours scrolling and attacking ourselves, for the greater good of learning about our health? Understanding how to positively impact ourselves from the inside out, and break down the walls that are holding us back.
Next time you attack a supposed flaw, and chip away at any positive body image you had left… start changing your language. Consider valuing those parts of your body for the function they serve, and the experiences they have allowed you to have.
You are SO much MORE than just a BODY. Let’s learn to see ourselves with that kind of respect and care.