HOW TO DEAL WITH BODY SHAMING
Body shaming is fast-spreading like a virus nowadays. Both men and women are caught up in this discriminatory web; both skinny and chubby individuals can experience this form of bullying. Even just having stretch marks or a scar can be used to body shame a person. It can be because of a person’s height, skin colour, the way they dress, and sadly, even a disability.
It happens online and offline. You might have learnt of people who leave derisive comments on other’s posts on social media. Sometimes, you get comments like “She’s damn chubby; you’ve gained too much weight; you’re skinny and you need to eat some more.” This act of judging people based on their looks is very toxic and can negatively affect a person’s mental health. Such comments can be devastating and humiliating, which affects a person’s self-esteem.
However, we want to share with you a few tips on how you can deal a great blow at this toxic attitude or feelings whenever you experience it:
Recognize the Importance of Body Positivity
Body positivity is about accepting and understanding that feeling good about your appearance is important for your health. Understand that no amount of therapy can help you if you don’t feel confident in your skin. Appreciate your appearance even with its flaws and don’t be thrust to the wall of condemnation.
Accept Yourself and Stop Hiding
It’s sad to know that people who experience body shaming hide from the world. It can be in the form of isolating themselves from others or covering their bodies. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be that way. You’re an effulgent creature and you deserve to stay in the light; not in the dark. So, be unapologetic with your look and stop hiding!
Practice Self-Love and Positive Affirmations
There are many bullies in the world, and the last bully you want to deal with is yourself. So, it’s important you treat yourself with respect, self-love, and kindness. Stand in front of the mirror (naked), look at yourself and learn to love your body. Say it aloud—“I am beautifully and wonderfully made; I shine bright like a diamond; the world can’t have enough of me”
