Having a Positive Body Image
Think about all the things your body can do. Have you ever thought about
just how amazing your body really is? Take a moment and appreciate all
that your body can do—run, dance, breathe, laugh, think, smile, etc.
Every day your body carries you one step closer to your goals.
We all come in different shapes and sizes. Think about how boring it
would be if we all looked the same! Your body type is uniquely yours,
but your family genes may help to determine how it will be shaped. As
you grow and develop, your body will begin to take on its genetically
programmed shape. This basic shape can't be changed. It's all in your
genes. Look at the bodies of other people in your family. Do you think
your body shape is similar to anyone in your family? Maybe it isn't yet,
but as your body grows it may start to look more like other family members.
Some people are shaped like a spoon. Their upper body is smaller than
their lower body. Other people are shaped like an hourglass. This shape
is curvy with a larger upper and lower body, but smaller waist. Another
shape is a ruler. This shape is straight with not much difference between
the upper and lower body. The upper body of someone that is cone shaped
is larger than their lower body. No category is better or worse than any
other, only different.
- No amount of exercise or change in eating habits will change the basic,
genetically programmed shape of your body.
- Don't try to be a shape that you can't be.
- Learn to like and respect your body the way it is built.
- Make the most of what you've got.
- Wear clothes that are comfortable and make you feel good about your
body.
- Work with your body, not against it.
Your body image is how you feel about your body. Having a positive body
image is very important. It means that you love, accept, and appreciate
your body. It doesn’t matter if you’re not perfect. No one is.
If you’re confident and carry yourself with pride then you’ll
be attractive. Love your body and take care of it.
What do you like about your body?
What do you dislike about your body?
If you could change your body, what would you change?
Your body is changing and growing. You may not feel comfortable with
some of the changes. Don’t be so hard on yourself. No one is perfect.
Your body image will change as your body changes. Learn to appreciate
all the wonderful things that your body can do. Your body image is related
to your self-esteem.
Remember that who you are is more important than how you look!
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