Accepting your body can be challenging and difficult to navigate in a world with beauty standards and unhealthy messages around body weight and physical appearance and it can lead to developing negative feelings about your body. It can be overwhelming to be surrounded by all these ideals of what our bodies are supposed to look like, as if there is one set template for everybody. However, we know that is not how it really works.
What's the difference between body positivity and body neutrality?
While it is important to care for and love your body, some people find it difficult to fully embrace the concept of “loving” your body as it is, better known as “body positivity.” This is why I like to introduce “body neutrality” to clients. A more inclusive approach that focuses on the various functions and abilities that your body performs day-to-day.
In comparison to body positivity, body neutrality is a shift from the idea of loving everything about your body to finding that middle ground where you can accept it for what it does regardless of what it looks like. Instead of pushing yourself with excessive positive body talk which might not feel realistic, you can “give yourself the space to simply exist” (Sreenivas, 2023) by taking a neutral stance and work toward reducing any negative self-talk.
It is also a healthy way to appreciate what your body is capable of doing for you on a daily basis and stepping away from comparing your body to other people’s and finding that sense of peace within yourself. This also includes developing healthy habits and routines tailored to what you need and what makes you feel comfortable rather than doing something in an attempt to fit into society’s unrealistic standards.
why comparing ourselves to others doesn't work
It is important to remember that every body is different and unique which also means that your body’s needs may vary from those of the person sitting next to you in class, at your favorite coffee shop, or in a doctor’s office. So, if you find yourself comparing yourself to others in regards to physical appearance, remember to take a step back and reflect on these thoughts you are having about yourself while making the shift to a mindset that focuses on the ways your body serves you.
Challenging negative thinking patterns regarding body image through body neutrality can lead to increased self-esteem and self-worth. It can also reduce symptoms of depression and improve your overall well-being. However, you may also find it helpful to adopt a combination of body positivity and neutrality at the same time. Like mentioned before, everybody’s different and it is also very possible that a dual approach aligns better with your mindset and needs.
If you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts or unhealthy habits related to body image and want to work on increasing your self-esteem, feel free to reach out and schedule a free 20 minute consultation.
Meet The Author
ANA FRANCO
MC, LAC
Meet The Author
Ana is a Clinical Counselor at Sea Glass Mental Health. She works with teen and adult populations. Ana specializes in anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
