Body image experts have had a lot of work to do lately, as too many people are insecure about their appearance. In reality, the recipe for good self-esteem is much simpler than diets and cardio exercises.
Body image experts will help you on your way to a better you self-image, but in reality you can do a lot yourself. How to learn to love your body? Check out these few tips.
#1 Your body size is like your shoe size
You probably don't spend hours in front of the mirror trying to get the perfect shoe size. So why treat the rest of your body this way? Body image experts like clinical psychiatrist Susan Albers believe the key lies in acceptance. “Going straight from 'I hate my body' to 'I love my body' is a huge leap. This is why I advise my clients to work on acceptance first. We accept our foot size and don't try to change it, we can do the same with our body," she said in an interview with Reader's Digest.
Photo: Unsplash/Derick McKinney#2 Fall in love with your body
There are definitely parts of your body that you like and adore. Maybe it's beautiful eyes, a beautiful smile, well-shaped nails or beautiful feet. Keep this in mind and come back to it every time you can't find anything positive about yourself. dr. Albers suggests remembering compliments you've received from family, friends or strangers. Body image experts advise: "Think about positive feedback you've received, such as 'I love your hair' or 'Your eyes are stunning.'"
#3 Accept the idea that everyone is different
Instead of comparing yourself to the models or celebrities you follow on Instagram, change the way you think. Focus on the fact that we are different from each other. And that no one person is better or worse than another. Comparison is what affects your self-esteem the most, so try to consciously avoid it.
#4 Avoiding mirrors
"Eliminating mirrors can be helpful in shifting the focus from how you look to how you feel," says Dr. Albers.
#5 Write friendly messages to each other
There are sticky notes with nice messages stuck around the apartment, which will remind you how good you look and will serve as a positive inspiration. This will help you not to get caught up in small imperfections, but to be able to see the bigger picture. Stick on sticky notes with positive statements like, "You look great today!" on the bathroom mirror. Why not!?
#6 Invest in three beautiful outfits
We all have those mornings when it seems like nothing in our closet suits us. If this is the case with you, then it makes sense to invest in a wardrobe and fill it with three different "outfits" in which you will feel and look great.
Photo: Unsplash/Hanna Postova#7 Stop looking at serial numbers
Whether you wear a size 36 or a 42, focusing too much on this figure will have a negative effect on your self-esteem. Also, every brand of clothing fits your body differently, so one size will never fit all. "I recommend taking three different sizes into your wardrobe and not looking at the numbers when trying them on," says Dr. Albers and adds that it is important to feel good in the garment, regardless of the garment size.
#8 Learn to accept compliments
Accepting compliments is beneficial because it encourages positive interactions, improves your self-esteem, and strengthens relationships. This lets others know that we appreciate their recognition. At the same time, complements contribute to a more confident attitude and better self-image. A simple "thank you" will do.
