By Shradha Sinha – June 1, 2024
Last Updated – June 30, 2024
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Table of Contents
Work Out With a New Perspective
In today’s fast-paced world, it is all too easy to get caught up in the idea of changing our bodies to fit a certain ideal. But what if we approached it differently? What if we shifted our focus from trying to fix our bodies to truly celebrating them? This change in perspective can lead to a happier, healthier you, both inside and out.
This blog is all about shaking up our approach to exercise, encouraging us to see it not as a way to change and fix ourselves, but as a fun and nurturing way to appreciate our amazing bodies.
So, let’s dive in and rediscover the joy of moving!
Understanding Body Positivity
What Is Body Positivity?
Body positivity is a powerful movement that traces its origin back to the rebellious spirit of the 1960s fat acceptance movement. Back then, it aimed to challenge society’s rigid norms and champion acceptance of all body types. Since then, it has grown and evolved into something even more wonderful.
Today, body positivity celebrates the beauty and uniqueness of every body. It is about acknowledging and cherishing our bodies not just for their appearance, but for their incredible capabilities and resilience. It is a big, colourful parade where everyone is invited to join and celebrate themselves, exactly as they are!
The Influence of Media on Body Perception
Unrealistic Standards in Media
Media often presents us with an idealised version of beauty that seems unattainable. These images are heavily edited and filtered, creating a standard that simply does not exist in real life. This constant barrage can lead to feeling negative about our bodies and engaging in unhealthy behaviours, like crash dieting or excessive exercising.
Social Media and Body Image
Social media can exacerbate these issues by constantly exposing us to comparisons with others. The carefully curated lives of influencers and celebrities often promote standards that are unrealistic and difficult to achieve. This can make it challenging to appreciate the unique beauty of our own bodies amidst the flood of seemingly flawless images.
Interestingly, a study published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in March 2021 found a link between how often people compare their physical appearance to those they see on social media and increased body dissatisfaction and a drive for thinness. This study, which surveyed 1,331 people online, raised concerns about teenagers and young adults being particularly vulnerable to these social media standards, making them more susceptible to eating disorders.
And so we should remember that not everything we see on social media reflects reality—what we see is often carefully selected and edited.
Positive Influences in Media
Fortunately, there is a shift happening in the media towards body positivity. Today, we see quite a lot of influencers and celebrities spreading messages of self-love and acceptance, demonstrating that beauty is diverse and comes in all shapes and sizes. It is like a breath of fresh air in a world that is often too focused on unrealistic ideals.
Benefits of Appreciating Your Body
Improved Mental Health
When you start to truly appreciate your body, you can experience a fantastic boost in your mental health. Accepting yourself as you are reduces stress and anxiety, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
Increased Self-Esteem
Appreciating your body for its amazing capabilities rather than just its appearance can really increase your self-esteem. This shift in focus lets you see your true value beyond superficial attributes, helping you recognise your inherent worth.
Better Physical Health
When you stop trying to squeeze your body into an unrealistic mould and start focusing on what makes you feel good, your physical health can also improve. You are more likely to take part in activities you enjoy and that are sustainable in the long run. It is about finding joy in movement, not punishment.
The Problem with Exercising to Fix Your Body
Unrealistic Expectations
Exercising just to change and fix your body’s appearance can be a recipe for disappointment. Bodies are wonderfully diverse and not all of them will respond to exercise in the same way. It is like expecting every cake to rise exactly the same in the oven – it just does not work like that!
The Cycle of Disappointment and Frustration
When the results do not match your sky-high expectations, it can kick off a frustrating cycle of disappointment. This negative experience can zap your motivation and make it harder to stick with your workouts. Nobody wants to feel like they are on a never-ending treadmill of frustration!
The Risk of Developing Unhealthy Behaviours
Focusing only on physical changes can lead to some pretty unhealthy behaviours, like over-exercising or developing a tricky relationship with food. This mindset can even increase the risk of eating disorders, ultimately harming both your physical and mental health.
Exercising for Health and Happiness
The Physical Benefits of Exercise
We all know that exercise has loads of physical benefits, like better cardiovascular health, stronger muscles and improved flexibility. When you work out to feel good rather than to look a certain way, you are more likely to enjoy these benefits, giving your body a lovely, energising treat!
The Mental Benefits of Exercise
Regular physical activity can do wonders for your mental well-being as well. It helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, lifts your mood and boosts overall mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, leaving you feeling happier and more energised. When you work out because you love your body and not just to fix it, these mental health benefits are even more amazing. It acts like your very own happiness generator, making you feel great inside and out!
Creating a Workout Routine You Enjoy
Setting up a workout routine you love can make all the difference in staying motivated and happy. Start by setting realistic goals that focus on how you feel rather than how you look. This approach helps keep the pressure off and makes exercising a more enjoyable experience. For example, aim to improve your mood rather than hitting a specific weight target.
Next, find activities that truly bring you joy. Whether it is a home/gym workout session, dancing in your room, hiking in nature or splashing about in a swimming pool, doing exercises you love will make it so much easier to stick with your routine. If you enjoy what you are doing, it will not feel like a chore!
Most importantly, listen to your body. Pay attention to how your body feels both during and after exercise. If your body is telling you it needs a break, respect that and give yourself permission to rest. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the journey and celebrate what your body can do!
Fitness Equipment Products
If you are looking to start your workout journey at home, it is very important to have good quality fitness equipment with excellent durability, all while staying within a friendly budget. The products listed below have been carefully selected based on customer reviews, ratings and affordability, making it easy to fit exercise into your daily routine without any hassle.
Amazon Basics 13mm Extra Thick NBR Yoga and Exercise Mat with Carrying Strap, Black (affiliate link)
This mat is a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts seeking comfort and durability. Its 13mm thickness provides excellent cushioning, making it particularly beneficial for activities that involve prolonged kneeling or lying down, such as yoga or pilates. The mat’s material, NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber), offers a good balance between softness and firmness, ensuring stability during various exercises. Its durability and practical carrying strap add to its appeal, making it a worthy addition to any workout gear collection.
Boldfit Fabric Resistance Band – Loop Hip Band for Women & Men for Hip, Legs, Stretching, Toning Workout (affiliate link)
Made from durable fabric, this loop hip band is designed to withstand intense stretching and exercises, providing consistent resistance for both men and women. Ideal for hip, leg and glute workouts, the band helps to tone and strengthen muscles effectively. Its non-slip design ensures that it stays in place during exercises, preventing any frustrating adjustments mid-workout. The fabric material also feels comfortable on the skin, minimising the risk of irritation.
Lifelong PVC Hex Dumbbells Pack of 2 for Home Gym (affiliate link)
These PVC Hex Dumbbells are an excellent addition to any home gym. These dumbbells, suitable for both men and women, are designed for a variety of exercises, from strength training to toning workouts. The hexagonal shape prevents rolling, ensuring safety and stability during use. Made from durable PVC, they offer a comfortable grip and long-lasting performance. With a 6-month warranty and their #1 bestseller status, these dumbbells are a reliable choice for enhancing your fitness routine.
BULLAR Rubber Weight Plates 14 inches Steel Dumbbells Rods 25mm Gym Equipment Set (affiliate link)
This set includes a pair of 14-inch steel dumbbell rods with a 25mm diameter, providing a sturdy foundation for your workouts. Accompanying these rods are durable rubber weight plates totalling 10 kg, designed to withstand regular use and protect your floors from damage. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts alike, providing the tools needed to achieve effective and efficient workouts from the comfort of home.
The Role of Nutrition
Eating to Fuel Your Body
Focus on eating nutritious foods that make you feel energised and satisfied. Avoid restrictive diets and focus on listening to your body’s natural hunger and fullness signals instead.
Understanding Nutritional Needs
Educate yourself about what your body needs to function optimally. This involves consuming a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. Try adding a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to your plate to ensure you are getting a wide range of nutrients. And do not forget to stay hydrated – our bodies love water!
Avoiding Diet Culture
Steer clear of diet culture that promotes quick fixes and unrealistic body ideals. Instead, aim for a sustainable and balanced approach to eating. Enjoy your favourite treats in moderation and focus on a balanced diet to nourish your body and soul, not to fit into a certain size.
A great tip to try is the Japanese practice of Hara hachi bu mentioned in the book, Ikigai – The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. This practice suggests eating until you are 80% full. It is also common in many Buddhist temples where the benefits of limiting calorie intake have been recognised for centuries. The idea is not to starve yourself but to consume fewer calories by choosing foods packed with high nutritional value.
Check out Ikigai – The Japanese Secret To A Long and Happy Life (affiliate link) by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia. This book offers engaging content and profound wisdom on living a purposeful life. It is not only one of my favourites but also a #1 bestseller.
Overcoming Negative Self-Talk
Recognising Negative Thoughts
Start by being mindful of those pesky negative thoughts about your body. It is normal to have these thoughts; it happens to most of us. However, it is not normal to let them take control and start believing them. When you encounter a negative thought, challenge it! Swap out the negativity with positive affirmations that highlight your strengths and what your body can do. Think, “I am strong and capable” rather than “I hate the way my body looks!”
Strategies for Promoting Positive Self-Talk
Embrace gratitude by acknowledging all the amazing things your body does for you. Celebrate the small victories, like climbing stairs without getting winded or carrying heavy shopping bags. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up and encourage positive self-talk. It is so much easier to stay positive when you are in good company. Remember, your body is a gift and it deserves all the love and appreciation you can give it!
Embracing Your Body for Everything It Does for You
In conclusion, body positivity is not about neglecting your health or denying the desire for self-improvement; it is about loving yourself as you are, while also striving for personal growth, a journey that looks different for everyone. So, let’s challenge stereotypes and myths about body positivity and work out with a new perspective of loving our bodies.
FAQs
How can I start appreciating my body?
Start by practising gratitude and recognising the amazing things your body can do. Think about how it lets you dance, hug loved ones or even just laugh. Try daily affirmations like “I am strong and grateful for everything my body does for me” and surround yourself with positive influences—whether that is uplifting social media accounts or friends who lift you up.
What if I don’t like exercising?
No worries! Think of activities that you like and enjoy. Exercise is not always about going to the gym. It can be dancing in your room, going for a scenic bike ride or even taking a playful swim. The goal is to find joy in moving.
Can body positivity and wanting to lose weight coexist?
Absolutely! Body positivity is about appreciating your body as it is while also striving for health and happiness. Focus on how your body feels rather than just worrying about the number on the scale. It is perfectly okay to want to feel healthier and more energetic.
How do I deal with societal pressure?
Stick to your values and surround yourself with people who uplift you. Challenge societal norms and remind yourself that your worth is not defined by your appearance. Practice self-compassion and celebrate what makes you unique. A little self-love goes a long way!
What are some simple exercises to start with?
Begin with low-impact activities like a morning stroll in the park, a calming yoga session at home or a refreshing dip in the pool. These exercises are gentle on the body and can be enjoyable for beginners.
Shradha Sinha, founder of SL24, is a fresh Zoology graduate and an Emcee from Shillong, Meghalaya – India. Currently, she is enthusiastically exploring the world of digital creation. Through her platform, she warmly invites everyone to join her on this new journey of personal growth and discovery.
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