We are strong advocates of self-love, but if there’s one thing we have zero control over, then it’s the proliferation of unrealistic beauty standards ridden all over magazines, social media posts, and even our favorite shows. And while we’ve made significant progress compared to what was being issued as normal many years ago, we’re still a long way away from truly encompassing real body acceptance and moving away from the idea that there’s only a single rendition for a beautiful body.
And so, today, we’ve decided to revisit the issue of body dysmorphia and how surrounding yourself with these negative thoughts is not only bad for your mental health but most often not true to what’s really being reflected in the mirror. We want to remind everyone that we are all beautiful, and we shouldn’t let these negative thoughts and anxiety cave in our thinking process and prevent us from realizing just how amazing we actually can be.
You’re Strong, Capable, And Beautiful The Way You Are
The single most frustrating aspect about body dysmorphia that we absolutely hate is how it makes people feel useless and blinds them from the many capabilities, skills, and beautiful aspects of their persona. You see, it bars you from looking at the bigger picture and forces your mind to nitpick on every little detail that shouldn’t actually matter. So, to help appease this issue and show you the light at the end of the tunnel, here are some activities that we strongly recommend:
- Exercise Regularly To See Your Strength: While we don’t expect you to become a fitness buff all of a sudden, exercising regularly and working out will help you come to understand just how strong your body can be. With grueling leg workouts and exhausting CrossFit routines among your exercise choices, you’ll feel super proud at the end of every session and won’t have the time to nitpick as usual. So, if you’re feeling low, don’t be too afraid to go for a few push-ups.
- Taking A Break From Social Media: We’re all for keeping up with your friends and staying updated on the latest news, but if your social media feed has been nothing but a source of unhealthy comparison, then we strongly recommend taking a break. A couple of weeks offline for a social media detox can help shift your focus on other more important things, such as getting some deadlines finished or immersing in your hobby, all of which can clear your mind of any negativity.
- There’s More To Life Than Just Looks: Summer is the perfect chance to go for an adventure, and if you’ve been isolated alone for too long, then we suggest setting off for a spontaneous trip with a few friends. For example, you could try sport climbing in Greece, and all the memories you’ll be making will help you understand that there’s more to life than just looks which can help you start the path toward body acceptance.
No One’s Going To Judge You For Professional Help
Furthermore, if you think the issue with body dysmorphia has gone past the level of being manageable through mindfulness exercises, then don’t be afraid of getting professional help. No one’s going to judge you for caring about your mental well-being, and you’re free to do whatever makes you happy, so don’t fall for the notion that professional help is seen as taboo just because your peers don’t do them.
- Reassurance Through Expert Therapy: Nothing comes close to the reassurance a trained professional can provide through therapy, and after every visit, you learn a bit more about yourself and help uncover some underlying insecurities holding you back. You see, sometimes we are unable to let go and open up, but a therapist can help guide you through the process and piece together the puzzle that’s boggling your mind.
- Undergoing Plastic Surgery: There’s nothing wrong with getting cosmetic treatment for the little details making you insecure, and if that’s all you need to feel a million times better, then think of it as an investment for your long-term mental health. We live in the 21st century, and you’re free to do whatever you like that makes you happy, so don’t go around thinking that the world’s stopping you from getting that surgery.
Beauty Comes From The Inside
In conclusion, we want to remind everyone that our true beauty shines from the inside, and while that may sound pretty cliche hearing over and over again, it’s an adage that never fails to hit a home run. So, don’t stress yourself out about every little thing you find unpleasant about yourself, and understand that you are beautiful no matter what those negative thoughts say.