In contrast to the dictates of bodily beauty, body positivism advocates a multiple representation of bodies, each as beautiful as the other. In the same vein, another, more pragmatic trend is developing: body neutrality. What does it consist of ? The answers of Siyana Mincheva, psychologist.
In the same vein as body positivism, which believes that all bodies are beautiful and challenges the constraints dictated by the world of fashion in particular, body neutrality is increasingly present and helps us to see ourselves differently. What does it consist of ? The answers of Siyana Mincheva, psychologist.
Body neutrality or acceptance of one’s body, as it is
The objective of body neutrality is rather to stop making an aesthetic judgment on different body types. “Body image is very linked to our appearance and what we exude“estime Siyana Mincheva.”We are bombarded, on a daily basis by social networks, with images of unrealistic, modified bodies and we are constantly tempted to judge ourselves.”.
In body neutrality, the objective is to accept your body and give it the place it should have. “Accepting your body means being aware that there are certain parts that we like, others that leave us indifferent as well as parts that we accept not to like” explains the psychologist. “This involves, for example, accepting that we don’t like our stomach and at the same time, choosing to no longer refuse trips to the beach or to wear that dress that we want..
Good in his body, good in his head!
Release the pressure by adopting body neutrality
By better accepting your body as it is, this also allows you to release pressure. “Indeed, if for example, a woman does not like her stomach or her thighs, she will tend to criticize herself, to not like her body, to feel guilty because it is not perfect. adds the expert. “All these thoughts disrupt, frustrate and reduce self-confidence.”.
So how can we adopt body neutrality to stop feeling guilty? Several behaviors and thought patterns should be adopted, according to our colleagues at the Washington Post:
- You have to focus on what your body can do, rather than its appearance, and this includes doing sports sessions;
- Along the same lines, you should spend less time getting ready and choose clothes in which you feel comfortable;
- It is important to avoid conversations that focus on the subject, so as not to ruminate afterwards;
- And finally take the time to accept this change, because the process can be long.
