Body Positivity

Nadine Rose Salas Manio

While growing up we were taught on certain ways on how to behave, what to wear and how should we carry ourselves. But no matter what we do, there are times that some people will always have something negative to say about us. It may leave a positive or negative impact on us depending on how we respond to it. Some people especially women, are sometimes being attacked on their body image. Some people would even use derogatory remarks such as ‘’you’re fat” or ‘’you’re too thin’’ without even thinking how it would greatly affect the person they are referring to. I received a lot of these remarks before and for a moment, I admit that it took a toll on my self esteem and self confidence. But as I grew older, I have learned how to embrace my body no matter what shape and size it may be in. Some of us may feel and take in the pressure on maintaining and achieving a certain body type that will fit into the standards of the society. Added pressure also comes from social media as we sometimes become easily deceived by everything we see and we tend to compare ourselves.

Body image are mostly the subject of bullying. Some people are tough and may handle it well while others give in to the pressure and let it affect their entire being. Some may follow fad diets while some may suffer from depression if their targeted body goal is not achieved. They will have this feeling that they will not be accepted unless they possess a specific body type. There is nothing wrong in setting a specific body goal as long as you do it for the sole purpose of being fit and healthy. Being healthy is not just about having a physically fit body, but it is also about being fit mentally.

We all deserve to have a positive body image regardless of what shape we may be in. We are empowered to decide if we want to add in or lose a little weight as long as it is for health reasons, and not because we want to give in to the pressure of other people. Acceptance and self love is the key to body positivity. Each time you start to feel the pressure of changing your body, remember that God created you in His own image and likeness, and you are loved regardless of your shape or size. To borrow a line from Christina Aguilera’s song “Beautiful”, ‘' you are beautiful no matter what they say, words can’t bring you down’' . At the end of the day, what matters most are the people who love you and knowing that you have a sound mind and body.

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