Body Image Dissatisfaction

It might surprise you to know that many people struggle with body image dissatisfaction. Most of us recognize that our body isn’t quite what we might like it to be, yet it doesn’t impact the way we live our lives, or the activities we engage in. But, those with body image dissatisfaction may avoid certain activities or not engage in activities with friends. It can also affect intimacy in relationships. For these people the dissatisfaction is devastating.

Summer is the time people get together for cookouts, beach parties, pool parties, etc. Thus it is a peak time period for negative body image to manifest. However, if you live in a warm climate this type of activity occurs for an even longer period of time. Some people won’t even go to these events. Others may go and not bring a bathing suit. Then there are those who will get in a bathing suit, but their anxiety is ramped up as they are sure people are noticing their flaws or judging them.

In addition there is the good old shopping for a bathing suit. This is the time where those who struggle are so aware of every flaw, fold, lack of curves in the right places, or lack of muscularity. In addition, some people beat themselves up in this process and it can ruin their day.

Factors that impact body image

Many factors impact how one views their body image. Your family, friendships, peers, movies, written and social media, all play a part. Personal history also impacts how you feel about your body. Did you get bullied or teased about something while growing up? Did you suffer any abuse or trauma? These can all be triggers.

Also, if you are a parent, be careful about what you say in front of your children. To them you are perfect, just the way you are. In addition, you are their role model. So if they hear you beating yourself up, you are teaching them to do the same thing about their bodies.

People who struggle with body image dissatisfaction are also at greater risk for eating disorders. They may over exercise, binge or purge their food, or restrict.

5 Ways to improve your body image

Change your self-talk

Are you looking in the mirror thinking you are fat, puny, disgusting, or ugly? Negative self-talk does not help. How do you think you will feel if you keep telling yourself that you are fat, or ugly, etc? You will feel bad about yourself.

Think about what you would say to someone you love. If they said to you, “I’m fat, puny, ugly or disgusting.” Would you tell them that they were? I’m guessing not. Think about what you might say to that person? Perhaps you would tell they look nice. Or reassure them that most people feel a little self-conscious in a bathing suit. Let them know that they are beautiful just the way they are.

Try saying those soothing words to yourself. I guarantee you will feel better about yourself.

Use mindfulness

This tool gets you out of your head. Focus on your surroundings and what is going on. Use your five senses. What do you see? Are you at the beach, pool, or other body of water? Are there bright umbrellas and towels? Can you see any sand? Notice the shade of the water. What can you hear? My guess is you can hear other people talking or some music playing. Maybe there are shore birds or the sound of boats going by. What about smell? Is there food cooking on the grill, or the smell of salt and sea? What are you touching? Perhaps you are sitting on a chair, towel or in the sand. Maybe you are in the water. Notice the feel of it and temperature. Above all, focusing on your 5 senses will get you in a different mindset.

Notice all that your amazing body does

Have you ever paid attention to all it can do? Most of us just take it for granted. Notice the coordination you have and all that happens naturally. Pay attention to all that is occurring when you walk or swim. Notice all the fine movements your hands and feet can do. Most people are more aware of this when they have hurt themselves and something isn’t working, as it should. Pay attention, your amazing body is a work of art!

Focus on fun vs. body image

It’s so much fun to be around others, especially since many of us have been cooped up due to COVID. Pay attention to the interactions between others. Notice all the fun they are having. Hopefully you are getting in on the action too. Pay attention to those you are talking to. These people are happy just to be with you. They aren’t paying attention to your body; they are paying attention to you.

Are you criticizing how others look?

My guess is you aren’t. You probably think they look great. Perhaps you think others look better than you, and you may not even realize that others struggle too. Maybe you would love to look like someone else. However that other person, no matter how beautiful you think they look, may not feel that way about himself or herself. Just because they appear self-confident, doesn’t mean they are. However, we can never know the internal experience of someone else.

Remember, most of us don’t think we look like models in our bathing suits. Most of us are very average with flaws here and there. That is what makes us human. What is important is that you are able to take your imperfect self and live life to the fullest.

If body image dissatisfaction is something you struggle with, please give me call at 713-304-6554 and we can help you improve upon it.

Take care,

Debbie