Cultivating a Healthy Self Body Image

Cultivating a healthy self body image can be a larger task in this day and age of constant saturation of images of what and how we should look. With the ever more intrusiveness of social media in our second to second lives, it makes it that much more difficult to remove one's idea of self from those projected as ideals from the media. However, there are many ways in which one can in fact, even with the constant media banter of what one should be, foster a healthy self body image.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, "Self-image is the personal view, or mental picture, that we have of ourselves. Self-image is an internal dictionary that describes the characteristics of the self, including intelligent, beautiful, ugly, talented, selfish, and kind. These characteristics form a collective representation of our assets and liabilities as we see them." 

According to Youngwomenshealth.org, "Body image is based on your thoughts and feelings about the way your body looks. Sometimes the way you think other people are judging your appearance can affect your body image. Poor body image comes from negative thoughts and feelings about your appearance, and a healthy body image is made up of thoughts and feelings that are positive. Body image is a major factor in self-esteem; which is the way you think and feel about yourself as a person."

Body image is part of self image and they are inextricably linked to self esteem. Having a positive self esteem will lead to a positive self image which will lead to a positive body image. The following are some ways in which a positive self esteem can be cultivated, provided by youngwomenshealth.org:
  
Focusing on your unique qualities. 

Focusing on your education: Learning gives you the power to make a difference in your life and in the lives of others.

Participating in a variety of sports or activities: This can be a great way to stay healthy and fit, which adds to a positive body image. 

Taking up a new hobby or learning to play an instrument: Have you ever wanted to play the guitar? Maybe you want to learn how to play chess. Take time to find your hidden talents! 

Setting and reaching new goals: Having something to look forward to can give you a sense of pride and help you work through different challenges throughout your life. 

Being an inspiration to others: If you thought of your own ways to cope with social situations and find confidence, you may find it rewarding to share advice and offer encouragement to others.

For further reading on the topic, see the following links:
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1990-05-27/features/9002130170_1_self-image-disorders-diet
http://youngwomenshealth.org/2012/05/30/self-esteem/
http://www.self-esteem-experts.com/how-to-increase-self-esteem.html
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/healthy_living/hic_Stress_Management_and_Emotional_Health/hic_Fostering_a_Positive_Self-Image
http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/body-image.html

Building Confidence

"Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend." - Lao Tzu

We will be building upon last week's positive self talk onto this week's building confidence, as positive self is certainly a step towards building confidence! 

Perception is everything when it comes to building confidence. The way in which you view yourself has much to do with how others perceive you. Of course there are factors that are beyond control always, but there is much that is under your control and by getting in that driver's seat and taking control, you can certainly build greater self confidence. 

"As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe 

The trick is to not let one set back keep you down, the more you keep pushing on, whether it is a failed test, lost job, or the end of a relationship, the idea is to keep pushing through, and moving forward. Allowing yourself "blunders" and letting yourself be human will not only build resilience within you but make you more confident along with it. The best way to learn is to try and to keep on trying until you do learn. The more you allow yourself to keep on trying and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, the easier it will become to face the next challenge with confidence.

Pulling from last week > be optimistic! Regardless of the situation, social, work, school, etc. being positive is a great force that has the power to change the way you see your outcomes. Try being optimistic the next time you face a personal challenge and see how if your outlook has an impact on the challenge and also how you perceive it. It doesn't cost a thing and it is another step in the direction of building confidence. 

“Confidence comes not from always being right but from not fearing to be wrong.” - Peter T. Mcintyre

Be prepared for it all. Pay attention to the small details, floss, get enough sleep, eat wholesome meals, dress in clothes that make you feel good - whatever your style maybe, get some exercise regularly - take a walk around the block, and be social - talk to your friends and family. Practicing self care can prepare you for building that confidence. 

Don't accept failure: the sky will not fall down, you will only gain experience by trying. You become stronger and your chances of succeeding increases. Get to know who you are and what you want out of life and the only way to do this is by trying and getting out of that comfort zone. It will build great confidence. 

"Low self-confidence isn't a life sentence. Self-confidence can be learned, practiced, and mastered--just like any other skill. Once you master it, everything in your life will change for the better." - Barrie Davenport

Get to know yourself better - go exploring, figure out what excites you and do it. Doing will help you figure out what you want out of life. It will build confidence, the more you do, the better you will get. As with everything, and as we have mentioned before, practice, practice and practice again. 

Be a superhero. Not in the crime fighting sense (unless that is your job!) - but pose, pose as a superhero for a few minutes in front of the mirror and see how it increases your self confidence, do it before a presentation or a meeting. This too will build confidence.