Your Body, As It Is: Rethinking Body Image in a Culture of Perfection
We’re Soaked in Body Pressure—Now What?
Extreme thinness, before-and-after photos, aesthetic “glow-up” journeys—these aren’t new. But lately, they’ve taken on a more aspirational and polished tone. They show up as wellness content, productivity posts, or “soft life” routines. They whisper: If you looked like this, your life would be better.
Whether it’s online or in real life, we’re all exposed to a constant stream of messages about how our bodies “should” look. And the pressure is quiet, but relentless.
So what do we do when we’re saturated in this stuff—but still trying to live, eat, move, and exist in peace?
Real Body Esteem Starts With What Your Body Can Do
Body image work isn’t about pretending you love every inch of yourself every day. It’s about building a respectful, realistic relationship with your body—one rooted in compassion and gratitude.
ED therapists often encourage a functionality-based approach to body image. That means shifting the focus away from how your body looks, and toward what your body does for you.
Try asking yourself:
What does my body allow me to experience? (e.g., hugging my kids, hiking a trail, dancing in the kitchen)
How has my body carried me through hard seasons?
What strength, flexibility, or energy do I have that I didn’t notice before?
Even if you’re still working on your health or fitness, you’re allowed to feel proud of what your body is already doing—today.
Build In Habits That Support Body Respect
Here are a few therapist-recommended practices for improving body image—especially if you’ve struggled with harsh self-talk or disordered eating messages:
1. Curate Your Input
You can’t always escape image-focused culture, but you can choose what you consume most. Follow creators and accounts that highlight body diversity, joyful movement, intuitive eating, or simply don’t talk about bodies at all.
Ask: How do I feel after I scroll? Lighter or heavier?
2. Engage in Movement That Feels Empowering
Exercise doesn’t have to be punishment. Choose activities that help you feel connected to your body, not at war with it. Whether it’s weightlifting, yoga, walking your dog, or dancing—movement can be an act of self-connection.
3. Practice Neutrality First
You don’t have to love your body to respect it. Some days, neutrality is the goal:
"I don’t love how I look today, but I’m still nourishing myself. I still deserve rest and care."
4. Interrupt Body-Checking and Comparison
Catch yourself in the mirror? Pause. Instead of criticizing, name something you’re grateful for—physically or emotionally. Notice when comparison thoughts pop up and gently shift focus.
Try: “Her body is different. Not better or worse. Just different.”
5. Talk About It—Even if It’s Uncomfortable
Shame grows in silence. Whether in therapy, a support group, or with a trusted friend, talking about body image struggles helps loosen their grip. You’re not alone in this—and you don’t have to carry it quietly.
From Self-Criticism to Self-Respect
When we stop seeing our bodies as projects to fix and start seeing them as partners in our life, something changes. We stop waiting to deserve joy, intimacy, photos, or nice clothes. We live now—not “when I lose ten pounds.”
If you're struggling with body image, consider working with a therapist or nutritionist who understands the complexity of body esteem and eating concerns. You don’t have to navigate it alone—and support can help you move toward a more peaceful, self-respecting relationship with your body.
Chanderbhan Psychological Services
About: Chanderbhan Psychological Services is a therapy practice located in Laredo, Texas. We help individuals and couples who are struggling in different areas of their lives gain the clarity they need to grow and change. We also offer telehealth to individuals located in the wider State of Texas. To read blogs on mental health and relationships, visit our website.
