According To Experts, Loving Your Own Body Can Be Started With These 7 Ways

Illustration of how to love your own body (Freepik/Wayhomestudio)

JAKARTA – Many people need time to increase their self-confidence. Indeed, self-confidence, especially regarding body image, is not instantaneous.

Everyone has their own process. There is no right or wrong because everyone's version is different and cannot be compared with one another. Based on Chloe Brotheridge's recommendation as reported by Psychology Today, Monday, July 12, here's how to start loving your own body.

1. Get rid of the triggers of negative thoughts about your own body

If the trigger is social media, then you can tune it, filter, and select only positive feeds. There are many positive thoughts and perspectives and can make your own mind calmer away from anxiety.

2. Focus on what your body can do

Instead of looking after your appearance, take the time to focus on the amazing things your body can do. Such as speed, energy, and accuracy. For example, when you exercise, avoid only thinking about the number of calories burned.

Think about how the muscles are pulled and your maximum effort to stay in the same position of movement. Also, think about how long you can last and make an exercise routine. This way can make you appreciate your amazing body more.

3. Make a positive list about yourself

The figure of 'you' is not only seen as a body. So it is important to make a list of 10 qualities about yourself, for example, whether you are a good friend, a caring parent, your profession, your hobbies, to anything that makes you cheerful and happy.

The more you read the list of things you like, according to Brotheridge, the more positive you will feel about yourself.

4. Don't just look at the numbers on the scales

For physical health, the number of scales does need attention. But if the number on the scale makes you feel insecure, then stop looking at it. If you want to improve your health, advises Brotheridge, you can do so without the aid of a scale.

You can start by walking every morning or dancing to your favorite music without looking at the numbers that make you feel bad.

5. Caring for the body

Paying attention to what the body needs is important. When tired, then rest. If the skin is dry, then apply a moisturizer.

If acne grows, then evaluate the cause and treat it most properly. It's as simple as taking care of the body or self-care, which is treating the body as a best friend, says Brotheridge.

Illustration of caring for the body (Unsplash/Kevin Laminto)

6. Dress in what makes you comfortable

Everyone deserves to wear luxurious clothes, but it is more appropriate to be comfortable to wear. You can wear clothes that match your style so that they can increase your self-confidence.

7. Accept the self-image as it is

If you still keep old photos, a million self-criticisms might come up. Starting from the way of makeup that does not fit, how to dress that is too flashy, let the hair is not neat, and so on.

But at some point, suggests Brotheridge, the self-image depicted in a portrait makes you remember the process of self-acceptance.