The impact of this desire to constantly please others and reach external standards has started to negatively influence the way we see ourselves. Think about the times we felt upset when the size of our clothes increased from M to XL when it is in fact just a measurement.

Think about how every time our appearances change whether to expectations or not, we feel disappointed because some of the first thoughts that might strike us are “Would I need to upgrade my wardrobe” and “What would people think about me”. The pressure that we live in to conform to unrealistic beauty standards perpetually beyond our reach consumes more of our energy. In that, we neglect positive and empowering thoughts.

Don’t misunderstand, feeling fit and good is something we can all look forward to. But don’t make them rigid standards based on societal or media norms. Consider other circumstances like your physical health conditions, nature of your work and physical exertion, biological make up, dietary and nutrition needs, age etc.

So, let us now investigate some ways on how we can develop a more positive body image:

Embrace self-love and acceptance

The need to belong is entrenched within us as human beings, we strive to mark off the public checklists in order to experience belonginess even at the cost of our own mental peace. Therefore, acceptance here isn’t about accepting the checklist and morphing yourself to it. Instead, it is about loving yourself for who you are, looking in the mirror and confidently feeling the inner you without hesitation or guilt.

Embrace individuality and cultivate confidence

Understand your own body, its functional aspects and cut ties with the unrealistic perception of being the person you admire on reels. Understand that every human is different in shape, size, and race. Being confident who you really are by accepting your potential and individuality, and slowly but surely, it will help you develop a more positive body image.

Surround yourself with positive influences

Know who are the people who exchange positivity with you and not pass body shaming statements is an important step. Surround yourself with people who value your potential and the inner you more than your appearance.

Practice mindfulness and gratitude

Be mindful of how important you are to yourself, be grateful of who you are when you look into the mirror. All of these will help you form a more positive thought process. Be grateful to your strengths, embrace your flaws and love yourself abundantly.

Instead of giving ourselves unnecessary pressure and conform to one standard, we need to realise that we are all unique in our own ways, in our thinking, in our physique, and in our ways of life. Being different should not be penalised but celebrated.

Remember, your body is you. Your dissatisfaction can control your emotions and relationships. Therefore, to protect yourself from suffering a body image problem and risking the development of eating disorders like bulimia nervosa or anorexia, be considerate of yourself and accept you rather than seek approval from others.

If you or someone you know is going through confidence issues, shows signs of eating disorders, please feel free to approach our in-house counsellors, Ms. Harshali Kotekar and Glenda D’silva for a chat.