Thanks to pop culture and the media’s unrealistic beauty standards, body image issues have become a real problem. The sad reality is that how you perceive yourself reflects the state of your mental health and determines how you treat your body.
As a result, body image issues require rapid and effective resolution strategies.
Personal trainers are often hired to help people fix their body image issues.
And after you become a personal trainer, one of your primary responsibilities will be to help your clients overcome those body image issues. Here are 4 tips to help you achieve that.
1. Focus on the Positives
Intentionality is essential when focusing on the positive characteristics of your body. You have to be thankful that you have a body and be as verbal as you can with that gratitude. Additionally, you should consider practicing the following:
- Repeat daily affirmations about your body
- Journal about things you’re grateful for about your body
- Eat healthy foods, especially if you’re dieting, and engage in exercises to keep you healthy
- Meditate
2. Remember That the Media isn’t Reality
It’s critical to remember that most pictures on social media don’t reflect reality. Many celebrities and influencers use photo editing apps and techniques to alter and enhance their appearances. Assuming the untextured face and perfect body you see on Instagram are real will only mess up your confidence.
It’s a good idea to take everything the media throws at you with a grain of salt. If you spend most of your time on social media, it’s time to consider reallocating your time. The more you expose yourself to unrealistic appearances, the more you despise your body. But if you challenge these standards, you’ll watch your confidence soar.
3. Stay Around Positive People
The company you keep can boost your self-esteem drastically. When you have a circle of friends that recognize the importance of body positivity, feeling comfortable in your skin will come easy. You should also stay away from people who constantly remind you of your body’s imperfections
In the same vein, evaluate your friends. Do they speak positively and kindly about their bodies? Or are they constantly body-shaming themselves and being critical? We are more susceptible to influences from people areound us, so be sure that your close circle offreinds have nothing but good things to say abou themselves and others.
4. Be Kind to Your Body
People with body image issues often hate their bodies and – consciously or unconsciously – fall into unhealthy patterns like self-harm and eating disorders. When you hate your body, you harm it and don’t give it the care and attention it needs.
Self-love may sound more like a fad than anything else these days, but it’s critical if you’re going to feel comfortable in your own skin. The specific self-love practices you engage in are up to you, as long as you don’t forget to treat yourself. Go to the spa, take bubble baths, and splurge on expensive meals. Anything to remind yourself that you’re special and you’re worth it.
Additionally, you should work with your body and not against it. Wear clothes that fit your body type. Take long walks; enjoy naps; do things that make you happy.
