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“Love yourself”, that’s what the internet and pop culture preach and that’s what you should do.
But loving yourself is not only loving your characteristics but also your body. In a world that often feels judgmental and critical of our bodies, the concept of body positivity emerges as a beacon of self-acceptance and self-love. It offers us a chance to embrace our unique bodies with all its quirks and flaws, and it challenges the relentless pursuit of unattainable beauty standards.
Body positivity isn’t just a movement; it’s a journey towards self-empowerment and self-compassion. This blog delves into the profound connection between fitness and body positivity, illustrating how a compassionate approach to exercise can foster self-esteem, self-acceptance, and an overarching sense of well-being.
The relationship between fitness and body positivity: A Journey of empowerment
At first glance, it may seem like fitness and body positivity are at odds with each other. The fitness industry has been known to promote unrealistic body ideals and beauty standards that make us feel “not enough.” However, there is a transformation underway within the fitness world, where more and more individuals and trainers are adopting a body-positive approach to exercise.
Here’s how fitness and body positivity come together to form an empathetic, self-loving partnership:
Empowerment through movement:
Engaging in physical activity can be profoundly empowering. It allows us to witness the strength and capabilities of our bodies, irrespective of their shape or size. In a body-positive fitness journey, we learn to appreciate what our bodies can do, shifting the focus from appearance to function. This transformative perspective can lead to an increase in self-esteem and a growing sense of self-worth.
Improved mental health:
Body dysmorphia is a leading cause of mental health issues. And this is where fitness comes in. Fitness is not only about changing your body but how you feel about your body. When you know that you’re pushing yourself hard, you’re satisfied. Not to mention, fitness has a positive effect on the mood as regular exercising releases endorphins that make you feel good.
Regular exercise has the magical ability to uplift our spirits and ease our mental burdens. It can be an antidote to stress and anxiety. In a body-positive fitness journey, exercise becomes a form of self-care, fostering mental well-being without the weight of appearance-related goals.
Inclusive, personalised goals:
Body-positive fitness doesn’t prescribe one-size-fits-all goals. Instead, it encourages us to set personalised, inclusive goals that focus on overall health, strength, and individual achievements. This approach cultivates a culture of self-acceptance, steering us away from the harmful cycles of extreme dieting and punishing workouts.
Shedding the weight of comparisons:
The peril of constantly comparing ourselves to others is one of the most significant challenges to our self-esteem. In a body-positive fitness journey, the spotlight turns inward, encouraging us to focus on our own progress and growth rather than competing with others. This shift can foster a healthier perspective on our personal journey and diminish negative self-comparisons.
Fitness as a self-esteem booster: A compassionate journey of self-discovery
Physical fitness is an ally on the path to self-esteem when we approach it with self-compassion and body positivity. Here’s how fitness can uplift our self-esteem in an empathetic way:
Triumphing over goals:
Setting and accomplishing fitness goals, whether they involve achieving a certain yoga pose, increasing our stamina, or lifting a specific weight, generates a sense of pride and achievement. Each milestone, no matter how small, contributes to our self-esteem.
Enhanced body awareness:
Regular exercise leads to increased body awareness. We become more attuned to our bodies, understanding their unique strengths, limitations, and individual beauty. This heightened awareness nurtures self-acceptance and self-love.
Acknowledging body strength and functionality:
As we progress on our fitness journey, we discover improved physical strength, endurance, and functionality. Recognising the capabilities of our bodies can lead to a more positive body image and foster self-esteem.
Stress relief and self-compassion:
Exercise serves as a powerful stress reliever. The endorphins released during physical activity can promote positivity, instill confidence, and alleviate self-doubt, bolstering our self-esteem.
Body positivity beyond appearances: A journey of self-compassion
In the world of body positivity and fitness, we are encouraged to look beyond appearances and acknowledge the multifaceted nature of health and well-being. Body positivity recognises that physical health is just one facet of our overall wellness. It urges us to prioritise not only our physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being, nurturing a compassionate relationship with our bodies
Focus on health, not weight:
Body-positive fitness emphasises that health is a holistic concept, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It encourages us to concentrate on improving our overall health and well-being rather than fixating on a number on a scale. This shift to a more empathetic perspective promotes a kinder relationship with ourselves.
Diversity and inclusivity:
Body-positive fitness champions diversity and inclusivity. It reminds us that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to well-being and that everyone’s journey is unique. This compassionate approach acknowledges that everybody is beautiful and worthy of love and care.
Closing thoughts
The union of fitness and body positivity is a journey of self-empowerment, self-compassion, and self-love. It invites us to embrace our unique bodies and appreciate them for all they can do. In this empathetic partnership, fitness becomes a means of self-care and self-discovery, lifting our self-esteem in a compassionate way. Body positivity encourages us to focus on overall health and well-being, acknowledging that we are more than our appearances. As we embark on this journey, we learn to celebrate diversity, practice self-compassion, and nurture an enduring sense of self-worth.
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