Body Image
Body image is so much more than our actual physical appearance. Body image is how we perceive ourselves - how we think we look and how we feel about that. Body image is a big part of our self esteem. When our body image becomes distorted, our whole sense of our own self worth is affected. It is one big downward spiral that can make it hard to work, learn and play. Being realistic and focusing on what is real, unique and special in each one of us is just one way to build up a positive body image. For other ways, please see the resources at the side of this page.
We can not escape the crush of media that bombards us with images of physical perfection. Advertising today is a 100 billion-dollar-a-year industry. What better way to make money than to make us want something we can not have, and make us believe that by buying a certain product it might actually be possible. Less than 3% of the population is naturally "model thin".
It is equally impossible to escape ads that equate being super-skinny or having six-pack abs with being popular, successful and happy. Yet, the images that portray this are unrealistic, manipulated and phony.
Unfortuantely, the influence of the media on young people has reached new heights. Studies show that children are unable to critically view and interpret advertising. It can be especially difficult for children to accept that all bodies are different and to be content with their own body. Basing our sense of self-esteem on achieving an unattainable goal of physical perfection leads to disappointment, depression, unhealthy lifestyles and potentially life-threatening eating disorders.
IT'S NOT OUR BODIES THAT NEED CHANGING; IT'S OUR ATTITUDE.
Be aware of fake images.
Talk positive; to yourself & others.
Accept and Appreciate the REAL YOU!
For more helpful tips and information check out the Body Image and Self Esteem section under Know the Facts on the National Eating Disorders Information Center Website: www.nedic.ca
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