Body Image: A healthy look in the mirror

There are so many messages we receive daily that make us question our appearance. Whether the messages come from the media, friends, family, or strangers, we are often appraised based on our physical attributes. We are all, to some degree, affected by what has been called the “American Beauty Myth”. This myth determines who is worthy of the title “beautiful”. We are told to eliminate people based on their skin complexion, hair texture, facial features, height, weight, and figure. This myth can dismantle our self esteem while we are still too young to resist these false assumptions.

It is not only a matter of what we come to believe but what others believe as well. Research shows that children who are deemed attractive are treated better and perceived in a more positive light by both teachers and peers. Many people decide a person’s worth based on arbitrary notions of beauty. Judgments based on looks can affect how we are treated in school, work, and especially in social settings. These perceptions can even unfortunately affect the way parents treat their children.

What is the result of negative body image? Its evidence is found in many of our behaviors, including but not limited to: the amount of money we spend on cosmetic products and plastic surgery, the growing number of males and females with disordered eating, and the way we settle for relationships in which we are demeaned and disrespected.

The truth is beauty comes in many forms: from dark to light, full figured to thin, short to tall, long hair to shaven heads. If we could take all of the energy invested in covering up are so called plainness or ugliness, imagine what we could do with our lives. When we can see the beauty in ourselves, we engage in the world with more confidence and compassion. True beauty is not based on having to judge one’s self against other people, but being able to truly recognize and appreciate the diverse beauty all around us. Challenge yourself today and everyday to ignore the mythical images of airbrushed supermodels and video vixens and come to love the woman or man in the mirror. It is not always easy but as you begin to strive for self love and acceptance, you will see a whole new level of self esteem supporting you throughout your day. When you feel good about you, you are in a better position to walk into your destiny.

So here are a few practical steps to improving your body image:
 Reject the myth that beauty only comes in one form.
 Eat healthy foods that make you feel positive.
 Engage in healthy amounts of exercise.
 Get adequate rest so you can face the stress of the day.
 Remember regardless of other people’s opinions, you define your beauty.
 Surround yourself with people who are affirming and not disrespectful.
 Think of three physical attributes that you like about yourself.
 Refuse to judge people’s worth based on their appearance.
 Treat your body with respect.