Body image is an expression of the deepest fears, insecurities and desires of a human being. Perception of one’s body is not just a superficial process concerned only with the physique, but a deep rooted phenomenon explaining the person’s emotional and mental state.

What is negative body image?

To be defined in simple terms, negative body image is low estimation of one’s body. To consider oneself to be too fat, too thin, too short etc. are examples of negative body image. It is important to note, that body image only the person’s perception of his body and not necessarily the exact understanding of it.

Causes for a negative body image

Various factors like social, cultural, educational and physiological contribute to a person’s body image.

It is a generally accepted that an emotionally secure childhood helps to build a positive body image. Appreciation or the lack of it from the family members counts. Peer group, teachers, awareness about health issues and popular culture are the biggest framers of a person’s body image. Body image can also be perceived from one’s physiological condition. A handicapped person is prone to feel a level of vulnerability and ineptness in comparison to others, which could root from lack of complete physical independence.

Media and negative body image

Popular culture and media have great impact on a person’s body image. At a certain age, a person may want to ape his or her favorite icon’s physical appearance; and failing to do so can cause extreme dissatisfaction. Celebrity fundas on weight loss and workout gain overnight cult status. Women have always been the victims of extreme sexualization of feminism in media.

Impact of negative body image

A person with a negative body image can cause anxiety, depression and low self esteem. To satisfy himself or herself about his body, a person may resort to unhealthy and potentially harmful practices. Usage of drugs or harmful steroids, engaging in fad diets/crash diets, anorexia, bulimia, under or over eating are few examples of the means people resort to satisfy their body image.

How to overcome a negative body image?

– Awareness – Information about health and nutrition will give an accurate idea about what should be the ideal situation. It is important to consider this information as general guidelines and not a judgment on one’s body.

– Positive attitude – You must constantly believe in his or her capacity to live a healthy and fruitful life with the body he or she has and also in his or her ability to change the situation for the better.

– Find reasons – Knowing the root causes of your body image will help you understand yourself better. In many cases, understanding a problem is half solving it.

– Divert attention – Find out things that you like about yourself and your body and cherish each one of those qualities. Remember these qualities when you feel anxious about your body.

– Eliminate negativity – Things, people and situations that make you feel negative must be ignored. Differentiate between constructive and destructive criticism and take life with a pinch of salt.

Dan Clay is a Sydney weight loss expert and owner of Dangerously Fit personal training. If you would like to attend a personal training session, or join a bootcamp, visit Sydney Boot Camp.

Dan Clay is a Sydney weight loss expert and owner of Dangerously Fit personal training. If you would like to attend a http://bootcampsydney.com.au/sitemap-personal-training.html personal training session, or join a http://bootcampsydney.com.au/ bootcamp, visit http://bootcampssydney.com.au/ Sydney Boot Camp.

Author Bio: Dan Clay is a Sydney weight loss expert and owner of Dangerously Fit personal training. If you would like to attend a personal training session, or join a bootcamp, visit Sydney Boot Camp.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Personal Trainer