But no matter what an individual’s experience with the phrase has been, there’s no denying its continued splash on the health scene. And because body neutrality de-emphasises the focus on appearance, it allows us to better appreciate all the things our bodies are able to do. Being grateful for being able to do the hobbies you love or appreciating your body for what it’s capable of doing are both examples of body neutrality. In other words, body neutrality takes the focus off appearance and puts it on the body’s function.
Here’s the truth, weight is only one way to measure success on your body positive weight loss journey. The number on the scale doesn’t always reflect your overall health, fitness level, or how you feel in your body. We explore the differences between body positivity, body neutrality, body acceptance, and body liberation, and which approach to body image might be right for you. The phrase “body positivity” is about taking joy in your body for exactly what it is, no matter what society says about it.
I specialize in intersectional eating disorders education and resources that transform the lives of BIPOC individuals and expand eating disorders treatment models. Being the founder and CEO of Nalgona Positivity Pride, I am able to raise awareness through digital media, public speaking, and grassroots activism. Fat Girls Club, hosted by Liesl Binx and Jessica Torres, takes on the “relatable topics” women experience every day, including everything from traveling the world as a plus-sized woman, food-related phobias, dating, and general body positivity. That, and they happen to be two best friends, which makes for some extremely honest and funny discussions. Whether you’re looking for health and happiness guidance, want to hear from people on a similar path, or are simply craving an upbeat dose of motivation and empowerment, there’s at least one body-positive pod out there for you.
Derenne adds that body acceptance is unique and distinct from the other approaches in its focus on celebrating the very existence of one’s body, even while tolerating any uncomfortable feelings about its appearance of ability. “Body acceptance allows individuals to acknowledge that there may be things about their body that they feel conflicted about or don’t always love, and at the same time promotes the importance of respect and care for bodies no matter what,” she says. The body positivity movement has been a necessary and instrumental call for the celebration of bodies, and this has been effective in calling for diversity representation in the media, particularly through the recent glittery example of musician Lizzo.
Even people who have the healthiest of self-esteems don’t view their bodies positively 24/7. Yes, it’s hyperbole to say ‘body positivity’ by definition means ‘be body positive all the time’. It seems ridiculous to think that, but many in the movement had been pushing for just that.
While body positivity has become increasingly popular, people continue to be confused about exactly what it means. Part of the reason why body positivity is so misunderstood is due to the fact that there are so many different definitions for what the movement means. By better understanding the effect that such influences have, the hope is that people can develop a healthier and more realistic relationship with their bodies.
We live in a world where there are unrealistic opinions on beauty and bodies. Author Megan Jayne Crabbe wants you to know that the real path to happiness is to accept and love the body you have. After years of battling eating disorders and constantly dieting, she learned a new type of confidence and got rid of the body shame to live a happier and better life. As transformative as self-love can be, trying to stay positive in this way is often easier said on an Instagram meme than done IRL, according to King.
Even the now-desirable “curvy” or thick/thicc body was born out of the need to recognize, represent, and celebrate Black bodies that were too often made invisible or worthless because of sizeism and racism . The incessant and historical erasure of Black fat activists’ radical and global lens on oppression is an integral aspect of body positivity’s gentrification. porn malay and intersectionality share a similar genealogy, and we must confront and resist the cooptation and whitening of both movements. We observed that most studies on #BodyPositivity did not recognize the rich Black, fat, and queer history of that movement. This glossing over has the insidious effect of re-asserting white supremacy through operations of ignorance.
All of us deserve peaceful relationships with our own bodies, regardless of whether or not others perceive us as happy or healthy. The body positivity movement has become increasingly contested territory in recent years. Online and in person, arguments abound about who the movement is for and what it is intended to accomplish.
In fact, promoting positivity may be missing the point altogether. “Kids who are made to exercise to lose weight will not only learn to despise exercise, but they will learn to hate their bodies as well,” cautions Heath. And avoid weight teasing in any form, which research shows can lead to weight gain, binge eating, and extreme weight control measures. Hang around positive people who make you feel good, and limit the time you spend with negative people. In a group of positive people, you can encourage and support each other. Consult your physician and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program or using any supplement or meal replacement product, especially if you have any unique medical conditions or needs.