Celebrating Body Image + Self acceptance
Let's dive right in because there's an important message that needs to be shared. It's time to step onto the soapbox (apologies, but not really), and discuss a concept that requires no advanced nutrition knowledge but is relevant to every single one of us: the art of respecting and accepting our bodies.
Bodies. We all have them. They're unique, each with its own abilities, shapes, sizes, colours, quirks, and experiences. It's high time we address the pervasive issue of weight stigma. To truly understand and improve our relationship with our bodies, we need to engage in some self-reflection.
Enter "fatphobia," a term used to describe the fear of fatness perpetuated by society. This fear, in turn, leads to a massive, often overlooked, oppression of individuals in larger bodies, commonly known as weight stigma. Some experience this oppression firsthand through bullying, verbal and emotional abuse, or the simple discomfort of not fitting into a chair in a waiting room. Others witness it, perhaps in the form of avoiding bullies or being subjected to verbal and emotional abuse. Fatphobia is a real and pervasive issue. Sadly, it influences our understanding and approach to health and wellness.
Imagine a world where diet culture hasn't convinced us that a larger body is synonymous with "poor health" and judgment. How many people would be less preoccupied with the number on their scale? How many would feel free to frolic on a sandy beach, cellulite and belly rolls? How many would skip that uncomfortable gym class without a second thought? Fatphobia and weight stigma breed negative self-talk and poor body image, fueling diet culture, obsessive thoughts about food and exercise, fad diets, and unsafe fitness practices. It even seeps into healthcare, contributing to weight-biased treatment. It's time to break free from these heavy ideals and learn to respect and accept all bodies, including our own.
Take a moment to reflect on the presence of fatphobia in your life. Does it affect how you perceive your body? How you view other bodies? Now, let's talk about thin privilege. Do you find your clothing size readily available in most stores? Do you effortlessly fit into an airplane seat? Can you enjoy your favourite amusement park ride without worry? Do you not think twice about wearing shorts on a hot day? If these privileges resonate with you, it's important to acknowledge them.
But let's be clear: None of this is meant to induce shame, guilt, or any negative emotions, regardless of your body size. All bodies are valuable. Our judgmental culture disrespects individuals in many communities. Genetics play a significant role in determining our body shapes and sizes, accounting for up to 80%. The remaining 20% is susceptible to the influence of diet culture. Think about it like your foot size, height, or eye colour – all unique traits determined by genetics, just like that incredible sack of skin you call home (yes, we went there, and it made us laugh too).
Our culture's concept of "health," "wellness," "average," "normal," and "acceptable" is deeply flawed, and weight stigma is just one facet of it. Other issues include oppression, sexism, racism, ableism, and numerous other prejudices. If you're as fed up with it as we are, here's a place to start:
Bid farewell to that scale. If you're truly ready to embrace and accept your body, you don't need a number to confirm or deny your beliefs about your body image. Hide it, sell it, toss it out, or even give it a good smashing – just stop using it. If you're not quite there yet, start by questioning why you want that number. Is there another way to address that need?
Ditch body checking. Whether it's the extra minute spent staring in the mirror or the closet full of clothes that no longer fit, it's time to move on. Give yourself permission to do so. If you find yourself lingering in front of that mirror, count to ten and then go about your day. Those clothes that don't fit anymore? Donate, sell, or pass them on – it's perfectly okay to let them go.
Speaking of clothing, opt for comfort. If you're hyper-aware of how your body feels at any given moment, a snug waistband isn't helping. Choose clothing that allows your body to breathe and move freely.
Challenge negative self-talk and negative body-talk. Whether it's inside your head or spoken aloud, it's time to put an end to it. Negative self-talk and body shaming are judgmental and unnecessary. Replace them with positive affirmations:
"Those pants are stylish."
"You've got great taste."
"Your laughter is infectious."
"You're radiating positivity."
Curate your social media. Better yet, actively change it! Take a moment to observe: do you see the same body type repeatedly, the socially "accepted" one? Consider how this influences weight stigma in your life and society as a whole. Unfollow accounts that don't make you feel good, and start following individuals who are different – different looking, acting, and with diverse opinions. Broaden your horizons; it's well worth it.
We see you. We hear you. We're here for you, no matter your body type. Your worth on this planet is not and never will be, determined by your body. It's time to shift our mindset and commit to respecting and accepting all bodies, including our own. Take some time to reflect on how you can work on body respect, and perhaps brainstorm ideas with friends, explore with your partner, or involve your family in the journey.
For anyone who needs to hear this – it's time.