Do you recognize that healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes? Or are you concerned about “measuring up” to the images you see in the media?

Television, movies and magazines promote the idea that women have to be thin to be beautiful, and men have to be lean and muscular to be attractive. These unrealistic images fuel the common misconception that thin people are healthier and happier – when, in fact, people who get thin by eating too little, by smoking or by exercising excessively are not likely to be either healthy or happy.   

People and events can also trigger negative feelings about our bodies. To help improve your own image, focus on the positive. Make a list of the things you really like about yourself. Look at things like your sense of humor, kindness, integrity or enthusiasm – not just physical traits. Include your skills, accomplishments and interests, and think about the people in your life who care about you. 

Healthy eating and physical activity will also help you feel good about yourself. If you think you need to make improvements in these areas, set realistic goals. For example, one small change in your lifestyle every week will quickly add up to a healthier you.   

Reward yourself with a good book, tickets to a game or time for yourself when you achieve a goal. If you stray a bit, forgive yourself and carry on with your plan.


Tips to help your children develop a positive body image

Be a positive role model by eating well, being physically active and feeling good about yourself. This helps your children develop healthy habits and a positive body image of their own.   

Here are some other things you can do:

• Accept your children the way they are. Kids come in all shapes and sizes, depending on their genes and where they are in their development.
  
  
• Don’t make critical comments about their bodies or how they look. Be careful about “pet names” that may imply criticism.
  
  
• Be aware of the unspoken messages you send. Do not criticize your own body. Watch what you say about how other people look, too.
  
  
• Focus on children’s strengths and abilities, rather than their physical appearance. Let them know you enjoy their personalities.
  
  
• Help them develop skills and interests. Encourage friendships, hobbies and activities and provide opportunities to develop them.
  
  
• Talk to your kids about the unrealistic images in the media. Discuss how the promise of a “perfect” body leading to happiness, wealth and love is misleading and dangerous.
  
  
• Help your children develop a healthy attitude to food and eating. Provide a variety of healthy, nourishing foods at regular intervals every day. Remember: you decide when food is served, what is served and where it’s served. Children decide whether and how much they eat.  This lets them listen to their bodies’ cues for hunger and satisfaction.
  
  
• Show your kids that physical activity is important and that you enjoy it. Find an activity the whole family can enjoy and do it together!

Remember to provide opportunities for physical activity, and a variety of healthy food choices. Then keep the focus on energy and feeling good about yourself. That will help both you and your whole family develop and maintain a healthy, positive body image.

Links:

Your Health Your Weight