by As children, we don’t think much about how our bodies look. But when we enter the teenage phase, we start noticing changes in our body and we don’t become fans of all these changes. The same is true for women in other age groups. Whether it’s social media or magazines, some women will always find platforms that can contribute to body image issues. Some might find their arms too skinny or their face too chubby. But even if you don’t have the hourglass, you should love yourself. Let us explain how to build body confidence.
What is body confidence?
Body confidence refers to acceptance, appreciation and overall positive perception of your own body, says Dr. Rahul Chandhok, Senior Consultant and Head of Psychiatry, Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram. It involves feeling comfortable and satisfied with one’s physical appearance, regardless of societal ideals or influenced by social media. Body confidence or body positivity is not about achieving a specific body shape or size, but rather about accepting and celebrating the uniqueness of your own body.
Why is body confidence important?
It’s good and healthy to feel good about yourself. Here are some benefits of body confidence and the importance of self-love to how you look and feel.
1. Improved mental well-being
Body confidence can lead to reduced anxiety, depression and stress related to body image issues, says the expert. This allows people to focus on their overall happiness and well-being rather than focusing on their appearance.
2. Better physical health
People who are confident in their body are more likely to engage in regular physical activity and prioritize their health without the sole goal of changing their appearance. This means that they will have improved their physical condition and overall health.
3. Better self-esteem
Embracing and accepting your body can boost self-esteem and self-esteem. It allows people to see themselves in a positive light and appreciate their unique qualities.
4. Stronger relationships
Body confidence can improve relationships with others, as people feel more comfortable in their own skin, which leads to better relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners.
Select the topics that interest you and let us personalize your feed.
CUSTOMIZE NOW
5. Increased respect for the body
Body confidence encourages people to respect and care for their bodies. This can lead to healthier lifestyle choices and self-care practices.
6. Absence of societal pressures
Being confident in your body means not being controlled by unrealistic beauty standards or societal expectations. It allows people to define beauty for themselves and not feel pressured to conform to outward ideals.
Tips for building body confidence
If you have negative thoughts about your body, these body confidence tips can help you feel better.
1. Practice self-acceptance
Recognize that everyone is different and that there is no ideal body. Adopt your unique characteristics and learn to love yourself as you are.
2. Surround yourself with positive influences
Spend time with people who promote body positivity and support your journey to self-acceptance, the expert tells Health Shots. Avoid those who always talk about unrealistic beauty standards or love body shaming.
3. Focus on what your body can do
Shift the focus to how you seem to function. Appreciate your body’s abilities, such as strength, flexibility, and endurance, rather than just how it looks. So if you can run faster than others, be happy about it.
4. Challenge negative thoughts
Don’t indulge in negative self-talk and critical thoughts about your body. Replace them with positive affirmations and compassionate introspection, suggests Dr. Chandhok.
5. Dress for yourself
Regardless of what people say, wear outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Focus on how the clothes make you feel rather than trying to fit specific societal fashion norms.
6. Do physical activities that you enjoy
Do exercises or play sports that bring you joy and make you feel good. Focus on enjoying the movement rather than using exercise as a way to punish or modify your body.
7. Limit exposure to unrealistic beauty standards
The next time you check social media, read a magazine, or watch TV, avoid shows or accounts that promote unrealistic beauty ideals. Unfollow social media accounts that make you doubt your body or feel inadequate.
If body image issues are affecting your mental well-being, consider seeing a therapist.
