What are Some way to Keep a Positive Body Image?

“There’s nothing wrong with your body, but there’s a lot wrong with the messages which try to convince you otherwise”

– Rae Smith

What I find helps me maintain a positive mind and body image is always keeping an upbeat attitude and appreciating the things that make my appearance unique. Below are some of my personal steps towards keeping a positive body image:

1. List out the traits about yourself that you like: Stating what it is that you enjoy about yourself can turn all the negative thoughts you have for yourself disappear. These traits do not have to relate to your physical appearance, it can be about your personality as well. I believe loving yourself can help create a positive body image. When I get depressed about not looking a certain way, I list out things about myself that I like and it helps me be grateful for who I am and what I have.
2. Be Surrounded by Uplifting People: The people you surround yourself with is a major influence on how you feel and how you see yourself. If you stay close to those who love you for who you are you will find yourself accepting and loving yourself more.
3. Complement Yourself: It sounds a bit silly to give yourself compliments, however, it can help build back up your confidence when you’re down. Reassuring yourself and pointing out the things you love about yourself can help boost your self-love.
4. Use Social Media: Although social media arises to be a major reason for negative body image, it can also help influence positive body image. Following blogs, Instagram accounts, or Facebook pages that promote healthy body images, facts, or quotes can help inspire you to start looking at your body image in a positive light.
5. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others: Another common action that leads to negative body image is constantly comparing your body to others. Remind yourself that everyone’s body frame and body shape is different. Also ask yourself if what you are comparing yourself to is realistic.
6. Try Taking up Yoga: Research has shown that doing yoga results in an increase in a positive body image. Not only will yoga heighten your positive body image, but also give you exercise and relaxation.
7. Be Healthy: Exercising is a good way to keep your self-esteem up as you always feel accomplished and amazing after a good work out. Make sure that you are exercising to have fun not to punish yourself. If you are wanting to lose weight, do it in a positive and healthy way with a good diet and enjoyable workout.
8. Don’t try to be Perfect: Remember that nobody is perfect and that everyone is different. Be thankful for what you have accomplished and not what you think isn’t good enough. Keep working hard, but be realistic.
9. Try Things Outside Your Comfort Zone: Although doing things you are not familiar with, you will feel amazing about yourself when you realize what you and your body can accomplish.
10. Practice Self Love: To have a positive look on your body, you must practice Self-love and acceptance. If you’re constantly bashing on your image, you will never be satisfied. Check out Jessie Hay’s 30 Ways to Practice Self-Love and Be Good to Yourself.