Body image is how you see yourself and/or how you think others see you. It is a key to mental and physical well being. Body image is defined by self-esteem, past experiences, messages from society, cultural pressures, relationships and mood. Although many of these factors can’t be controlled, body image can be improved.

• Be good to yourself. Weight-related goals should focus on one thing…HEALTH! Practice good health habits that will nourish and strengthen you.
• See yourself as a whole person instead of an individual body part.
• Don’t bad mouth yourself. Be positive and find good in yourself. Feeling badly about your body is probably as much a habit as it is a reaction to society’s rigid standards. Habits can be changed even if society can’t.
• Don’t equate thinness or being muscular with happiness.
• Remember there is no “ideal” body. Beautiful bodies come in all sizes and shapes.
• Be realistic about what you can change and learn to be happy with what you can’t.
• Expand your definition of beauty. Develop your inner self and be defined by it.
• Become more aware of your own fat or scrawny prejudice so you don’t pass it on to others. Don’t criticize or comment on others’ appearances.
• Compliment people for other things besides their physical appearance.
• When you meet others, focus on something besides your appearance. Strive to be interesting, nurturing, witty, a good listener, etc.
• Break the habit of comparing yourself to others in terms of appearance.
• Be in supportive relationships. Be around those who accept themselves.
• Deal with the real issues. Being overweight or underweight are often signs/symptoms of a much deeper problem. Work to discover the issues behind the food. If you think you need help, get it.

Once you start treating your body with love and respect, you’ll be amazed at the amount of time and energy you’ll free up to devote to more positive, creative and worthwhile endeavors.

Source: Renfrew Center Foundation and the American Heart Association