when body positivity makes it worse…

“Body Positivity” is not for everyone

What is body neutrality? 

Body neutrality is all about accepting your body as it is without placing a value judgment on it. Body neutrality allows you to form your concept of worth, value, and identity around your internal self instead of your external self.  In doing so you learn to not attach positive or negative feelings to your physicality. It just is.

It's acknowledging that your body is just a vessel that carries you through life, and that it does not define your worth as a person. Instead of focusing on how your body looks, body neutrality encourages you to focus on what your body can do for you. 

How does body neutrality differ from body positivity? 

Aiming to increase self-esteem by promoting self-acceptance and self-love, the body positivity movement questions the unattainable socio-cultural ideals of beauty, bodies, and appearance. With the help of social media and other outlets, people are being urged to let go of self-consciousness about their physical appearance and to show their true selves without fear of judgment. For example, they're being empowered to post photos of themselves as they truly are, without editing or filtering. Unfortunately, some components of the body positivity movement have veered off course and come under fire for not being inclusive of all bodies, genders, and ethnicities. Another criticism of body positivity has been that striving for a wholly positive view of your body is unrealistic, necessitates a lot of work, and incites people to think about their bodies excessively when it may be difficult for them to do so. 

Body neutrality might be a more accessible way to deal with your negative body image if being "body positive" seems too unattainable, or you believe it might require you to spend an unhealthy amount of time thinking about your body. This is because it primarily encourages you not to think about your body and how it looks. As a result, you don't feel like you have to love the parts of yourself that you currently find difficult. Because it emphasizes inner beauty rather than outward appearance, this is a much more inclusive approach to self-acceptance. The choice is entirely personal; for some, body neutrality will suffice, while for others, pursuing body positivity may be the right course. 

What are the best ways to practice body neutrality?

For many of us, it's easy to get caught up in the cycle of negative self-talk when it comes to our bodies. We might feel shame or guilt for not meeting certain societal standards, or we might obsess over our flaws and imperfections. But when we shift our focus away from appearance and towards gratitude for what our bodies do for us, we can start to cultivate a more positive and accepting relationship with our bodies. 

So, what does body neutrality look like in practice?

Here are 4 ways to practice body neutrality: 

1. Reframe Your Thoughts: When you catch yourself in negative body talk, try to reframe your thoughts in a more neutral or positive way. Instead of criticizing your body, focus on what it does for you. For example, instead of saying "I hate my thighs," try saying "My thighs help me walk, run, and dance."

2. Accept the Present Moment: It's easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future, but practicing body neutrality means accepting yourself in the present moment. Embrace your body as it is right now, without attaching judgment or criticism.

3. Mindful Movement: Engage in mindful movement that feels good to your body, rather than obsessing over how it looks. Try activities like yoga, walking, dance, or swimming. Remember, the goal is to feel good, not to "burn calories."

4. Celebrate Your Body: Take time to appreciate your body for what it can do. Maybe you climbed a mountain, ran a 5K, or even just got out of bed this morning. Celebrate those accomplishments and thank your body for making them possible.

Remember, practicing body neutrality is a journey, and there will be ups and downs along the way. But by making small changes and showing yourself kindness and acceptance, you can cultivate a more positive relationship with your body.