It’s a rare day when we don’t hear about someone who is struggling with body image issues. Body acceptance seems to be one of the most difficult parts of modern society, but there are ways to help yourself feel better and learn how your looks should be seen from other people’s perspective.
The “metro mental health” is a non-profit organization that provides services and support to those who are struggling with body image anxiety. This article offers advice on how to accept your body.
Experts provide advice on how to improve your connection with your body (Picture: Getty)
Most individuals battle with body confidence at some time in their lives.
As we become older and travel through various periods of life, our bodies alter.
Various factors may alter the way we appear, which can have a knock-on effect on our body image, whether it’s losing our teenage metabolism, having infants, or just becoming older.
Learning to love our body, on the other hand, is critical.
This is because, in both men and women, body dissatisfaction may harm self-esteem and be connected to other mental health issues including melancholy and anxiety.
So, how can we improve our connections with our bodies and, as a consequence, accept them?
Experts have provided some suggestions on how we might love ourselves a bit more.
Determine the source of the problem.
‘There are a variety of reasons why some individuals have body issues. Dr Lucia Berdondini, a psychologist at the University of East London, states, “These might involve a mix of prior traumatic experiences, internalized judgment, comparing oneself to other people, or other personal concerns.”
Dr. Lucia argues that in order to improve our relationships, we must first recognize what makes us miserable.
‘By being more self-aware of what we like and hate about our bodies, we may pinpoint what we can alter – and begin the mental or physical effort necessary to enhance our own sentiments about how we appear,’ she continues.
Concentrate on health and balance rather than perfection.
We need to focus on health and balance rather than perfection in order to build a loving and accepting connection with our bodies.
‘We can achieve this by directing our attention to all the beautiful things our body does for us every day (in fact, every minute! ),’ says Dr Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic.
‘However, we may also do this by doing things that we know are beneficial for us, such as eating healthy, nutritious meals, exercising consistently, and sleeping enough.’
‘Rather of concentrating on how our bodies seem, we might concentrate on how they feel and how they are cared for.’
Self-talk that is positive
A good thought has a lot of power.
Jade Thomas, a psychologist in doctoral training at Private Therapy Clinic, says: ‘A good place to start when it comes to building a positive relationship with your body image is by showing some appreciation through Self-talk that is positive.
‘Recognize the mental dialogue you’re experiencing with yourself; is this a constructive or negative dialogue?’
If you see yourself becoming pessimistic, stop yourself and attempt to think more positively — at least until it becomes a habit.
Praise your body’s ability to work.
Every day, our bodies do extraordinary feats. As a result, it’s critical not to lose sight of this.
‘Rather of concentrating on the negative features of your body, try to reframe those ideas by recognizing either areas of your body that you enjoy or, if that’s too tough, try identifying the incredible functions of your body and what it does for you every day,’ Jade continues.
‘Small shifts in your thinking may lead to larger shifts in your overall perceptions of your body and yourself.’
Increase your endorphin levels.
Endorphins are released when you exercise. (Image courtesy of Getty Images/iStockphoto.)
It’s also a good idea to do activities that make you feel good about your physique and yourself in general — this will help you feel better about yourself.
‘Remember that life is about how we feel from inside, not what is on the outside,’ Jade adds.
‘Exercise, yoga, and helping others have all been proved to enhance self-esteem,’ according to research.
Stop making comparisons.
‘Comparison is the thief of pleasure,’ Jade says. ‘Remind yourself of this when you catch your thoughts drifting towards comparing yourself to others.’
There’s no use in attempting to compare our bodies since they’re all so distinct. It will only make us unhappy.
‘Reflect and ask yourself: Do I want to take away my joy?’ Jade advises. Why do I want to judge someone else’s looks to determine if they are better or worse than me? What do I gain by comparing myself to others?
‘Asking yourself these uncomfortable questions may stretch your thinking and change your habits.’
more: way of life
Avoid avoidance at all costs.
It’s also critical not to dismiss the issue; instead, realize how you’re feeling and consider how to deal with it.
In fact, avoiding problems like worry might make them worse.
‘Avoiding mirrors or dismissing unpleasant thoughts won’t make them go away,’ Jade explains.
‘Recognize the negative ideas that come to mind when you get a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, and use positive tactics (self-talk/building endorphins/stopping comparison) to try to change your mentality, even if it seems difficult at first.
‘You may also attempt cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a professional CBT therapist for further help with shifting negative or problematic beliefs about your body image.’
Seek expert assistance.
If you’re still having trouble with your body image or confidence, it may be time to seek professional treatment.
‘If these strategies are unable to assist someone in developing a better connection with their body, it may be worthwhile to seek the support of a therapist or coach who can construct wellness programs to help them accept the way they appear and find areas where they may improve,’ Lucia says.
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