Accepting Body Changes

We’ve been sold a lie. We’ve been bombarded with the message that bodies are not supposed to change.

Think about it. How many times have you heard someone talking about wanting to fit into their high school jeans? How much pressure have you experienced to “bounce back” after pregnancy? Not to mention we live in an era of anti-aging products and weight loss drugs.

With all the messaging around ideal bodies, how do we get through it? How can we go about living in a body that has wrinkled, changed in size/shape, or shifted in ability?

First and foremost, try to practice self-compassion. Try not to judge yourself for struggling with body image or for taking measures to prevent a changing body. I would argue that it is impossible to go through life and escape the expectations that are put on bodies—no matter your gender or sex. Self-compassion offers us the ability to heal, as opposed to shame and criticism.

Next, give yourself the space to grieve. Body change is a loss, and it is appropriate to view it as such.  When we give ourselves the space to acknowledge and validate what we are feeling and experiencing, we can continue to move forward.

In grieving a changing body, it may not feel realistic to shift towards body positivity. This is where I recommend practicing body neutrality. Body neutrality in action is respecting and caring for our bodies whether we like them or not. It’s reminding ourselves—sometimes often—“This is my body. I don’t have to love it right now, but I can take care of it. It helps me do the things I love.”

Lastly, we can be sure to have a critical eye when it comes to media. So much of the messages we receive about bodies are rooted in capitalism, white supremacism, and ableism. So many “isms” that try to sell us an idea that our body is not good enough as it is. When you notice yourself shaming your body, ask yourself where the message is coming from and who profits from this message.

Body change happens; it is not our body betraying us. If you notice yourself feeling overwhelmed or ashamed of body change, you are not alone. Your body is still worth your respect and care. Reach out today for support regarding body image.