OK, so you've heard the term 'body positivity', but what does it actually mean? The truth is, it can mean different things to different people, and it is sometimes not that positive. For some, it's as simple as accepting their body exactly as it is, but for others it's all about feeling confident. Body positivity is a mindset and for me a ‘force for good’. Unfortunately, it perpetuates a focus on appearance, and has fallen short of its inclusivity goal.
Inclusivity, it’s getting better My biggest grievance about the body positivity movement is its facade. The “love your body in spite of what you look like” mantra does not take into account existing social stigma that surrounds many body types. It's easy for a healthy, able-bodied white person to talk about how everyone else should be 'positive' about their body. Take as an example people with plus-sized bodies, who often have assumptions made about their diets, lifestyle choices and motivations. First of all, what is plus size!? We live in a society of norms and whilst a lot of effort is being made, it still falls short.
Let's get real! As you probably know by now, I do NOT like diets! There is no such thing as a perfect body, but there is such a thing as a healthy body and a healthy mind.
Healthy body, healthy mind Be kind to yourself, to your body and to your mind. It starts with you and your objectives. Never forget, your body is just one part of your identity, and it does not define who you are! The infamous rule of being judged by our appearances… it’s there to be broken. Maintain a healthy diet and be happy in yourself and you will quickly become fitter and stronger.
Look at the bigger picture It's time to think about body positivity more holistically – not just as a buzz phrase or a fad, but something that should make you comfortable. After all, this is all about positive mindset. A healthy lifestyle is not about comparing yourself with the skinny model who has been ‘Photoshopped’ beyond belief. Do it for yourself and remember, it's about how good it makes you feel – a wholesome energetic buzz from natural endorphins – not as part of a constant fight to be in control of your body!
I feel very strongly about body positivity, and this comes from a very personal experience. I was a very anorexic teenager, and I hated my body. I still do not like my body, but I made peace with it and I am now a total foodie.
It’s been a long journey for me but the Lime & Zest programmes that I have created are here to support you in your own personal journey of change.
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