3 Ways To Promote a Healthy Body Image
Time that’s spent scrolling through social media, flipping through a magazine, watching a show on television or interacting with others means exposure to a lot of different things. Body types, clothing, makeup and the next best beauty treatment breakthrough all carry a lot of influence. Unfortunately, this isn’t always a positive thing. This type of exposure can make anyone feel less than or wishing they were different. What’s important is developing and maintaining a positive body image, regardless of what the exposure is each day. Body image can be a real struggle for some, but there are ways you can help others improve theirs. Read on for three of them.
1. Focus on Strength in Numbers
While some might feel more comfortable tackling the issue of body image alone, don’t underestimate what can be accomplished together.
In the case of developing a more positive overall body image, try starting with your circle of friends. If you’re finding that negative self-talk runs rampant in your group, try steering the conversation in a different direction, replacing the negative with something positive. This is a wonderful way to set a more positive and encouraging tone, rather than feeding the negativity.
Other times, negative body image can stem from simply not having much support. For instance, maybe you have a good friend who has young children and most of her time is spent taking care of everyone but herself. Pay attention to her queues. Maybe she feels worn out, tired and unmotivated, or maybe she often makes negative comments about her body. Try suggesting a weekly walk together or share quick online workouts you think she might enjoy. Share the promising benefits you’ve learned about from reading Le-Vel Thrive reviews, offering to give it a try together. You might even offer to babysit while she heads to the salon for a fresh haircut.
Never underestimate the power of encouragement and genuine friendship. It will go a long way in repairing and maintaining a positive body image for everyone.
2. Look Beyond Appearances
Everyone knows that there is more to a person than their physical appearance. However, all too often this is overlooked and appearances are all that seems to be noticed or emphasized.
This isn’t to say that compliments on a new hairstyle or outfit aren’t appreciated (they are), but trying to focus on what’s truly inside will have a big impact. Maybe your mom has the uncanny ability to make you laugh no matter what, or maybe a co-worker has one of the calming presences you’ve ever experienced. Don’t be afraid to bring these types of things up. Chances are they’ll make the recipient feel wonderful, appreciated and more aware of what makes them unique. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that compliments might make some people uncomfortable — especially when they’re struggling with body image. Choosing your compliment wisely and appropriately will be helpful here.
3. Know When and How To Offer Advice
Offering advice is a tricky thing, especially if it’s unsolicited or if you’re unsure of how to approach the situation. When you’re connected to someone who has low body image, it’s important to be able to identify signs that maybe they’re struggling more than they let on. While it is indeed common for someone to express negative self-talk regarding things such as their weight or their complexion, there are times when someone might struggle with more serious and detrimental effects, such as eating disorders or depression.
Knowing when to step in and provide guidance is critical here, but keep in mind that everyone has a unique and different situation. What works with one friend might not work with your cousin, so be as patient and supportive as possible.
Having negative thoughts from time to time is very normal, especially when the stressors of everyday life tend to bring them out. Doing what you can to lessen these times and make them more bearable will make all the difference for everyone.
