Embracing Body Diversity: 7 ways to love your body NOW
We frequent Chicago as much as we can, with so much to do, see, eat and experience. I have really noticed something happening with younger generations in the city right now. Everywhere we go - we see people embracing their diverse body types more than ever before. Women dressing in clothes that show off their curves and differences. Fashion that celebrates comfort, style and natural beauty. Crop tops and parachute pants. Sneakers and dresses. Big hair, short hair, curly hair, long hair.
The body positive vibe is real and thriving.
This is not how the city was only 5 years ago. I remember feeling like I had to look a certain way to just walk my dog in the morning. Women were getting thinner, pants were getting tighter and comfort was at the bottom of the list for fashion trends.
But recently, I was riding the elevator to a trendy rooftop bar in the West Loop, listening to a group of young women bubble about their plans that night. Each of them looked so uniquely dolled up and confident. They were all different body types, from thin to thick, and they were lovin’ life.
As we stepped off of the elevator, I remember thinking “I wish it were like this when I lived here.”
If I had a nickel for every minute spent changing clothes to hide my “flaws”… I would be a very wealthy woman. I spent the majority of my twenties obsessing over my weight, my size, my cellulite, my flab, counting calories, jumping to the next fad diet… the list is endless. When I look at photos of myself, I am shocked that I felt like so much change was needed. I was beautiful just the way I was, but I did not feel that.
Younger generations are pulling away from the ever elusive “perfect” body type and celebrating body diversity…. and I am on board.
Here’s a few tips to join in….
Focus on your overall health more than your weight.
How is your energy? How is your gut health? Do you enjoy your workouts? How are you sleeping? While tracking your weight can help you get to know your body, it is such a small part of a very large picture. Focusing on that number too much may keep you from maintaining important aspects of your health.
Wear clothes that make you FEEL great.
Sizing these days is absolute nonsense. You may be a size 10 in one brand and a 16 in another. This leaves women feeling frustrated and defeated. I’m here to tell you there is NO value (or logic) to size numbers. Clothing has become a huge, international marketplace and sizing is based on a big variety of systems. Find clothes that help you feel beautiful, comfortable and unique.
Stop comparing yourself.
Social media is a huge part of modern life. It can teach us all sorts of diy hacks and share recipes… and it can also wreak havoc on our mental health. It is causing an epidemic of poor mental health and suicidal thoughts amongst young people because they are living in a constant state of comparison. With feeds filled with thin bodies, perfectly manicured and made up, being average can feel like a failure. So.....
Stop following social accounts that make you feel like you are lesser than.
Here is the truth - those accounts are utter bullshit. The photos are staged and the houses are rented for the shoot. Celebrities are forced to fast and dehydrate themselves to achieve that “cut” look for films.
Start following social accounts that celebrate body diversity.
There are millions of people rejecting diet culture and the notion that there is a perfect body to be achieved. Men and women of all different shapes, colors and sizes are posting content that celebrates diversity and teaches style for all different body types.
Start normalizing being normal.
This might be a tough one - but maybe something we can achieve together. Be proud of your normal life - your less than perfect house, your messy kitchen, your rolling out of bed look for the gym, your imperfect selfies from a less than flattering angle. You may be surprised how much someone in your social circle might appreciate a post that shows a seriously normal side of your life. **Our private Downs Fit Fam group is a great place to start.
Learn more about intuitive eating.
Intuitive eating is essential for long term health. Listening to your body is non-negotiable. What foods make you feel healthy and nourished? What portions leave you feeling satisfied and not stuffed? These are the questions we need to be asking ourselves. For some of us, intuitive eating will be a slow process of learning and unlearning habits. More on this in another blog…