Did you know that you are not born with a body image? Body image is the perception of yourself that is shaped by family, friends, the media, your culture/environment, gender, and race. Influences can be positive or negative, and makes the difference between a happy life or one that is filled with grief, despair, unhappiness, and an unhealthy relationship with food.
What are the signs of a positive and negative body image?
Negative body image is the following:
- having an unrealistic perception of your body shape
- believing that everyone else is attractive, but not yourself
- feelings of shame, anxiety, and low esteem about your body
- feeling awkward, un-pretty, and uncomfortable in your body
Positive body image is the following:
- feeling comfortable and confident in your body
- being able to fulfill your body’s physical, mental, and emotional needs
- being accepting of your body (self-love)
- understand that your character and personality is what makes a person, and not the shell it lives in
- celebrating your body shape for what it is
- seeing your body as it is, but holding a healthy perception of it during weight loss efforts
- taking pleasure and enjoyment in food and not fighting your appetite
If you need guidance…
I am developing a course that teaches you how to become confident and love your body. Without the sturdy foundation of body-esteem and confidence, no exercise program, nutrition plan, or other weight loss efforts will be successful.
If you would like updates on this course and other educational courses, then click here to join my mailing list, and I will keep you posted! And, you will also receive more blog updates, such as the one you’re reading now!
And if you like this post, please share with your friends, family, and any one else who may benefit!
Pamela Brown
Personal Fitness and Wellness Coach
Reference: Druxman, Lisa. ”Boosting Your Body Image”. 2004
