8 Ways to Improve Body Image—Because You Deserve It

 

One of the first steps to creating a healthy lifestyle is by accepting your body and learning to love the skin you're in. From celebrities to accountants, it seems that everybody and anybody can struggle with maintaining a positive body image.

While it may seem like loving your body has nothing to do with your well-being, positive body image can have an impact on mood, mental health, social relations, and development in younger years.

1. Take a break from social media

Social media is a world where it is easy to portray the best of yourself, even though behind the scenes may be less-than-glamorous. By taking a break from social media, you are avoiding the comparison and the jealousy you may feel when looking at “highlight reels” from the lives of others. Spend the day social media-free and see how you feel.

2. Do something you love

The human body is amazing, and it can accomplish incredible things. Treat yourself to a day of something you love, and see what your body can do. Whether it be a spa day or a day hiking in the mountains, use your body for something that you enjoy, and you’ll learn to appreciate all that it can do for you.  

Related: Give Your Child the Gift of a Positive Body Image  

3. Take a look in the mirror

Don’t avoid the mirror, embrace it! Count five things you see that you love about yourself. Every time you pass a mirror, make sure to take a glance and notice things you love. Change the first thoughts that usually come to mind from negative to positive.

4. Serve others

Serving others will help you shift the focus from yourself to those around you. Focusing outward instead of inward is a great way to shake a body-image funk. See how you can help others and learn to love your strengths and traits, like your generosity and kindness to others.

5. Exercise

Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day can raise endorphin levels and improve your mood. Get out and move your body, and you’ll be surprised about how good it can feel.

6. Surround yourself with the right people

Surround yourself with people who love and appreciate you. Their positivity and encouragement can help teach you ways to love yourself. Be honest and share your body image struggles so they can help you when you need a boost.  

Related: Why I Love Strength Training  

7. Make a change

Is there something in your life that is giving you unnecessary stress or anxiety? Negativity can greatly impact your body image, even if it is not related. Make a list of things that make you feel stressed, and choose to eliminate one of those things in your life. Keep a journal so you can track your progress, and make note of the positive changes you are making.

8. Be body positive

Making sure to accept everyone, no matter how they look, is a step you need to take to love yourself. We are harder on ourselves than we are others, so learning to love and be positive to others will change the way we think about ourselves. Surround yourself with positive influences and make body positivity a priority in your daily life.