*updated January 2024
Are you trying to reach a biologically impossible body ideal?
Being bombarded with media images of the "ideal" (read thin) body shape, it is hard not to start believing there is only one type of beauty. I do eating disorder treatment, so I end up talking to people about their body issues frequently. One of the obvious problems with that is that most of us don't have bodies like the women who grace the covers of magazines. The natural comparisons, however, cause us to feel dissatisfied and down about our bodies and to pursue biologically impossible ideals we can never reach.
Your body is a masterpiece: strong, functional, and uniquely beautiful!
I wanted to post some pictures of curvier women whom I think are beautiful to balance out the images that are probably thrown at you from tv, the movies, social media, and hollywood. Thin can be beautiful, and curvy can be beautiful, too. The important things is to learn to embrace and enjoy the body you were given. It is a complex masterpiece.
Take a look at each of these women and pay particular attention to what it is that makes them beautiful. Each one has features that are unique and lovely.
Any of you who have watched the TV show Girls know that Lena Dunham has chosen to put her average girl body front and center on the screen. Though I could do without some of the nudity, I appreciate that she is showcasing a sense of comfort with her body and normalizing a more reasonable standard of what many women's bodies look like. Since the show came out, Dunham has in a larger body and has faced criticism about her weight. I’m sure it doesn’t feel good to face public scrutiny like that, but she is still enjoying her life and continuing to do her work in film and television.
Find things about your body you’re thankful for
Now take a look at yourself in the mirror and pick three things about your body that you are thankful for. Throughout the day, as you look in the mirror, or just go about your day, think about those features you like and express gratitude for them. We have spent enough time thinking about the thing we don't like; now is the time to think about what a beautiful creation we are.
Tips for accepting your body
Accepting and embracing one's body, especially when it is larger, is a complex and personal journey. As an eating disorder therapist, here are some perspectives and strategies that may help in fostering self-acceptance:
Challenge Societal Norms:
Acknowledge and challenge societal beauty standards that promote a narrow and unrealistic definition of attractiveness. Encourage the understanding that beauty comes in diverse shapes and sizes.
Shift Focus to Health:
Emphasize the importance of prioritizing health over appearance. Shift the focus from external appearance to overall well-being, including physical, mental, and emotional health.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Help individuals develop self-compassion by encouraging them to treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they would offer to a friend. This involves acknowledging imperfections and embracing oneself with warmth and empathy.
Cultivate Positive Body Image:
Explore and identify positive aspects of one's body beyond physical appearance. Focus on the body's capabilities, strength, resilience, and the things it allows the individual to do.
Challenge Negative Thoughts:
Work on challenging and reframing negative thoughts about body size and shape. Replace critical self-talk with more balanced and positive affirmations.
Mindful Eating Practices:
Introduce mindful eating practices to promote a healthier relationship with food. Encourage individuals to listen to their body's hunger and fullness cues, savor the taste of food, and eat without judgment.
Set Realistic Goals:
Help individuals set realistic and holistic health goals that go beyond weight or appearance. Goals related to physical activity, nutrition, and self-care can contribute to a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
Address Underlying Emotional Issues:
Explore and address any underlying emotional issues or traumas that may be contributing to negative body image. Understanding the emotional roots of body dissatisfaction can be crucial for lasting change. Talking to one of our caring Houston therapists can help you get to the root of the distress and find healthy ways to cope.
Celebrate Non-Appearance Achievements:
Encourage the celebration of achievements and successes that are unrelated to appearance. This could include personal growth, academic or professional accomplishments, and meaningful relationships.
Build a Support System:
Foster a supportive environment by encouraging individuals to surround themselves with people who promote body positivity and acceptance. A strong support system can be instrumental in the journey toward self-acceptance.
It's important to note that the process of accepting a larger body is individual and may require professional guidance. Eating disorder therapists can provide tailored interventions, support, and a safe space for individuals to explore and navigate their feelings about their bodies. Additionally, collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including dietitians and medical professionals, can contribute to a comprehensive approach to body acceptance and overall well-being.
Ready to start feeling better about your body?
We have Houston body image and eating disorder therapists who can help you work through this and feel better. You can contact us online to schedule an appointment or to ask any questions you have about how we can be of help to you.
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES WE OFFER IN HOUSTON, TX
In addition to Eating Disorder and Body Image therapy, we have other mental health services that we offer at our Houston, TX counseling office. Our services are available for adults, children, and teens. For individuals, we offer Anxiety Treatment, School and College Counseling, Couples and Marriage therapy, and Infertility Counseling. As well as Trauma Therapy, PTSD Treatment, EMDR Therapy, and LGBTQ+ Counseling. Our caring therapists also offer Family Therapy, Parenting Counseling, Career Counseling, and LPC Supervision. All of these services are also available through Online Counseling throughout Texas.