What is Body Positivity? It is an ideology that promotes self-love, acceptance, and appreciation of one’s body regardless of its size, shape, or color. Today, society's ideals around beauty and body standards have become increasingly more unrealistic, causing many to develop harmful perspectives of their own bodies and self-worth. Incorporating body positivity practice into your daily routine can lead to a happier, healthier you. In this article, we’ll cover some beneficial body positivity practices to help you achieve positive well-being.
1. Mindful Eating
Mindful eating implies practicing full attention to the meal rather than being distracted with computers, phones, or other technology-gadgets. Turning off all distraction while eating will ensure that one eats slowly and mindfully, savoring each bite. Perhaps, noticing the texture, flavor and aroma of the food one consumes will have a deeper appreciation for the food.
Mindful eating may not only help one make conscious eating decisions but also positively support self-worth by promoting self-care, compassion towards the body, and appreciation for the food, leading to a better relationship with food.
2. Movement-Based Exercise
The purpose of movement-based exercise is not for weight loss but rather as a way of moving the body, freeing the mind from disturbing thoughts and staying active. Movement-based exercise can include yoga, dance, running, cycling, among others.
When people exercise, the mind and body release chemicals such as dopamine which improve moods, self-esteem, and increase energy levels. Exercise does not have to mean an intense work routine or a specific time frame. Simple activities such as stretching, taking a walk in the park, or dancing to one’s favorite music can elevate moods.
3. Creating a Postive Self-Image
Developing a positive self-image involves positive self-talk and positive affirmation. Acknowledge times when a negative thought comes up and challenge such thoughts with positive, more realistic thoughts.
Positive affirmation also helps counteract negative thoughts. List positive things about oneself and repeat them daily. Wearing clothing that fits comfortably can also help build a positive self-image and confidence.
4. Unplug from Social Media
Social media encourages images of unrealistic beauty standards. Therefore, taking regular breaks from social media can be beneficial. It will ensure that one does not engage in toxic comparison and jealousy of others' lives.
By unplugging, one can live in the present moment, value one's life experiences, and truly enjoy them without being distracted by the constant urge to take photos and share with the world. It's also an excellent way to get some much-needed rest from the world and to re-center oneself.
5. Surround Yourself with Positive Reinforcement
Surround oneself with people with positive attitudes, those who appreciate you for who you are, and have a sense of humor. Exposing oneself to positive reinforcement rather than negativity can improve one's mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Having a support system from family, friends, and group support can also be helpful. Support groups do what they're aptly named for: provide support, which can be particularly important when trying to build healthy body positivity practices.
6. Educate Yourself
Educating oneself about body positivity, different body types, and media portrayal of beauty ideals can help one gain perspective on just how much society influences people's beliefs about their bodies. It can also help one to stand strong in the face of negative body image messaging.
When people educate themselves, they become empowered and have a clear understanding of the negative effects of negative body ideologies.
7. Practice Gratitude
Give thanks to your body and remind oneself of all the amazing things it does for you. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking your body doesn't look perfect, but that causes one to overlook all the wonderful things the body does constantly. Feeling grateful will help to build positive relationships with the body and reinforce the idea that the body is an amazing vessel deserving of care, love, and respect.
8. Engage in Self-Care
Self-care is important for one's well-being, and it can do wonders in promoting healthy body positivity practices. Indulge in activities that help to relax and re-energize the body such as warm baths, good night's sleep, spending quality time with oneself and a good book, listening to calming music, etc.
Self-care also means getting rid of objects that are harmful to one, such as clothing that is too tight, shoes that hurt feet, or uncomfortable forms of exercise. Instead, prioritize things that lift one's spirits, relax the mind, and nourish the body.
Conclusion
Incorporating body positivity practice into daily routine is important to achieve positive well-being. Mindful eating, movement-based exercise, creating a positive self-image, unplugging from social media, surrounding yourself with positive reinforcement, educating oneself about body positivity, practicing gratitude, and engaging in self-care are a few of the effective body positivity practices.
Remember, taking care of the body involves treating oneself with kindness, appreciating the body's features and imperfections, and embracing oneself wholeheartedly!
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