What Body Neutrality Is and Why You Need It
As a huge advocate for accepting, appreciating, nurturing, and supporting your body through life, I love to talk about how body neutrality can enable you to connect back to yourself. We all have days when we're not appreciating ourselves, and this can be a result of external influences, our mood, or what's going on in our lives. I want to help you begin practicing body neutrality so you can accept your body as it is and start cultivating your best self.
So, what exactly is body neutrality? Body neutrality is the practice of existing within your body without judgment or strong opinions about how you look. It encourages us to step back from conversations about our bodies and appearance, freeing us to focus on the things we enjoy and the person we are beyond our physical form. In essence, body neutrality is about acceptance.
Now, you might be wondering how body neutrality differs from body positivity. While body positivity promotes feeling beautiful and loving your body at any size, body neutrality shifts the focus to how your daily habits make you feel rather than how you look. It encourages you to appreciate your body's abilities and non-physical characteristics, emphasising self-worth beyond appearance.
In a society inundated with diets, body shaming, and unrealistic beauty standards, it's hard to navigate this space. It's time to break free from the negative spirals surrounding our bodies and embrace body neutrality. Here are some steps you can take to begin your journey of healing and self-acceptance:
Drop body talk: Redirect conversations that revolve around your body and appearance, including the ones you have with yourself. Instead, focus on how you feel. If a conversation doesn't serve your neutral space or make you feel good, it's time to stop it.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body's cues and needs. Take breaks when you need rest, nourish yourself mindfully, and engage in activities that bring you joy and make you feel good.
Reframe body-hating thoughts: Challenge negative thoughts about your body and replace them with positive, empowering affirmations. Recognise that your body is a whole entity, greater than the sum of its parts.
Accept and make peace with your body: Embrace the idea that your body won't change, and that's okay. Focus on accepting and loving yourself as you are in this moment.
Treat your body with respect: Prioritise self-care by wearing clothes that fit well, engaging in joyful movement that you enjoy, and indulging in foods you love without guilt or restriction.
Acknowledge and reframe negative internal messages: Be aware of any contradictory actions that don't align with your beliefs. Strive for consistency between your beliefs and actions.
Prioritise your values over societal expectations: Challenge the societal pressure to conform to certain beauty standards. Instead, align your actions with your personal values and what you believe makes a good person.
Reflect on how body hate has held you back: Identify instances where body hate has prevented you from fully experiencing life, whether it's avoiding activities or opportunities due to insecurities. Use these realisations to motivate change.
Practice self-compassion: Understand that the journey toward body neutrality is challenging, and it's okay to make mistakes or feel imperfect. Be gentle with yourself and allow yourself time to grow and change.
Seek professional support: Consider consulting a weight-inclusive therapist and dietitian who can provide guidance and support on your journey toward body neutrality.
Remember, you are more than just your body. Body neutrality helps you recognise how you feel in your body and allows you to appreciate your body's unique abilities. By shifting the focus away from appearance and embracing what your body can do, you develop a more realistic mindset.
It's essential to address any body hatred or negativity you may feel, as these emotions can hinder your progress toward body neutrality. Speak to a licensed therapist, family member, or friend about your feelings and seek support in overcoming them.
Body neutrality is for everyone, but it particularly resonates with those who find loving their bodies challenging. By practicing body neutrality, you break the habit of connecting your body to your sense of self-worth and instead appreciate and value your body for its capabilities.
Bottomline: In conclusion, body neutrality empowers you to exist without constantly evaluating your body. It allows you to embrace your body as it is and recognise that your worth extends beyond appearance. By prioritising self-acceptance, self-care, and aligning your actions with your values, you can embark on a journey of healing and self-love.
Remember, change takes time, and it's okay to stumble along the way. But by persisting and embracing body neutrality, you can create a healthier and more compassionate relationship with your body, yourself, and the world around you.
As James Clear said, "Raise your standards, and the universe will meet you there!" It's time to raise your standards and embark on the remarkable journey of body neutrality.
Alternatively if you’re feeling stuck and need the support and accountability then please reach out to us and Head Coach Lizzie to have a chat about it - we’re ready to rock your world! You can enquire through filling out the form here.
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