bad body image days are so normal and everyone goes through them, but that doesn’t make it suck less on the days where you just aren’t loving what you’re seeing in the mirror. know that a bad body image day doesn’t have to decrease self-love. you can have an incredible relationship with yourself and still have off days!
it’s important to know what to do on a bad body image day to maintain a healthy mindset - here are tips to navigate and honor yourself when you’re not feeling your best:
practice self-compassion
on days when we’re not feeling so great about our body, it’s easy to get into a negative thought spiral. this will only lead to a worse mindset though, so treat yourself with kindness and understanding. remind yourself that everyone has flaws and imperfections, and remember all that your body does for you. challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations and self-acceptance!
limit social media exposure
social media can sometimes exacerbate body image issues since it’s a highlight reel of everyone else looking their absolute best. consider taking a break from social media or unfollowing accounts that make you feel self-critical.
surround yourself with supportive people
reach out to trusted friends or family members who can provide emotional support and understanding on your bad body image days. know that the reasons you are loved have nothing to do with your body.
practice mindfulness and body appreciation
engaging in mindfulness exercises can help you develop a more positive body image. practice being present in the moment, focusing on your senses and appreciating the capabilities of your body. take note of the things your body allows you to do: breathing, moving, and experiencing the world around you.
dress for comfort and confidence
choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. wearing outfits that align with your style and make you feel good about yourself can boost self-esteem and body image.
engage in self-care activities
take time for self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. this can include taking a relaxing bath, reading a book, practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises, listening to uplifting music, or engaging in a hobby that brings you joy. prioritize activities that make you feel good about yourself and promote self-love.
seek professional help if needed
if negative body image issues persist and significantly impact your daily life and well-being, it may be beneficial to seek support from a mental health professional. they can provide guidance, support, and therapeutic techniques to help you navigate and overcome these challenges.
again, on days when you struggle with your body image, remember that it's normal to have these feelings, and you are deserving of compassion and care. these habits above help you nurture yourself and cultivate a healthier body image over time!
your worth goes way beyond your appearance 🙂