Learning About a Healthy Body Image

How can you learn to feel good about your body?

It can be hard to know what is an "ideal" body shape or body size when TV, movies, ads, and social media show unrealistic images of what it means to be attractive. Healthy bodies come in lots of shapes and sizes.

Most of us will never look like fashion models or world-class athletes. But when you treat your body well—feed it healthy food and move it in ways it's built to move—you can feel good about it.

Another part of learning to feel good about your body involves changing your thinking from negative to positive.

Negative thoughts can make you feel sad and anxious. They take the joy out of life, and they can take a toll on your physical health. The more negative thoughts you have about your body, the harder it is to be healthy.

How can you change your thinking?

Your thoughts can affect how you feel emotionally and physically. More encouraging or positive self-talk may help lower stress, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

Take a minute to notice your thoughts. Sometimes negative thoughts can become automatic, and you may not even realize you're having them. If you notice thoughts that make you feel bad, try asking whether there’s a more supportive or realistic way to think about the situation.

What else can you do to feel more positive?

• Focus on things you like about your body. Try not to focus only on parts of your body you dislike.
• Share your feelings with someone close to you. Many people have negative thoughts about their appearance from time to time. Talking about it with someone else helps you keep those thoughts in perspective.
• Do something nice for yourself. Spend time with people you enjoy, do something relaxing, or make time for activities that make you laugh or feel good.
• Take time to be grateful. What's one thing you appreciate about your body? Are you healthy and able to be active? That's something to be grateful for.
• Eat well. Sleep well. Be active. Eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and staying active in ways that feel good to you may help you feel more positive overall.
• Make social connections. Enjoy some time with family and friends. Look for new ways to connect with people, such as a class, a club, or a community or support group.
• Consider talking with a counselor you like and trust. A counselor can help you work through negative thoughts about your body, self-esteem, or appearance and build healthier coping skills.