Body image is the way we feel about our bodies and the way we think others perceive us, according to About-Face, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy body image among women. Women are bombarded with images of disproportionate and airbrushed models in the media and are held up to narrow social standards of beauty, sometimes making it hard to cultivate healthy body image. But developing a positive body image is essential for good health.
Features
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, American women feel a lot of pressure from the media to look Barbie-like, with youth and thinness held up as the only way to be beautiful. In addition, women can get negative body image messages from family, friends, peers and even doctors. Women can combat these negative body images by learning about the issues associated with body image, as well as using positive techniques to change their thinking.
Significance
The strong media messages equating thinness and youth with beauty are propagated for a reason: to increase profits of the multi-billion dollar weight loss, fashion and cosmetic surgery industries. The effects of poor body image in women can include eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, risky sexual behaviors and even suicide. According to the American Psychological Association, low self-esteem is often linked to unhealthy behaviors in teen girls, including early sexual activity and substance use.
Considerations
The mainstream media often gives women the idea that beauty is the most important part of a woman. According to About-Face, in one study, white and African American women in high school who watched more mainstream media rated beauty and physical appearance as a higher priority than their peers who didn't watch as much mainstream TV. Furthermore, the ultra-thin standards of beauty that are popular in the media are unattainable by most women, which can lead to shame, depression and unhealthy eating.
Prevention/Solution
To improve their body image, women can limit their intake of mainstream media as well as work on combating their negative self-talk. Incorporate healthy lifestyle habits into your daily life by practicing stress reduction, getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious and healthful diet and exercising regularly. Focus on how much your body does for you, and learn to give yourself compliments every day. Stop holding up an unrealistic image of beauty in your head, and instead appreciate and embrace your positive body traits and how you are truly unique. Try using positive mantras such as "I am beautiful," "I feel healthy" and "my body deserves the best care."
Benefits
A healthy body image helps women feel confident, happy and fulfilled and able to focus on their goals and priorities. Once women accept the fact that beauty and health come in all shapes, sizes and hues, they are free to enjoy life more and feel more at peace. A positive body image is often linked with healthy self-esteem, healthy risk-taking and goal-setting, healthy eating and an exercise routine that can prevent diseases and health problems.
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