Study Says Loving Your Body Is the Key to Overall Life Happiness
Whether it’s Khloe Kardashian, Lauren Conrad or Oprah Winfrey, the list of body-positive celebs has grown exponentially over the past year. This cultural shift toward embracing our unique shape is hot RN, and — according to new research — it may be the antidote to the widespread depression, eating disorders and poor physical health caused by body shaming.
To understand the relationship between body image and satisfaction with life, the researchers at Chapman University conducted an online survey of more than 12,000 U.S. adults. They found that people who were dissatisfied with their weight also had lower levels of self-esteem and were less satisfied with various aspects of their lives.
Meanwhile, study participants who reported feeling more body positive had greater self-esteem and satisfaction with life, relationships, family and financial status. So if body satisfaction is the key to happiness, how do we achieve it?
Three Tips for Better Body Satisfaction
1. Practice self-compassion. Simply put, self-compassion is the same kindness and care we’d give to a good friend. If you’re feeling down about your looks, try building yourself as you would a BFF in distress. If you keep a journal, jot down your feelings and respond to yourself in a caring, understanding way.
2. Quit the body shaming. If feeling bad about your body has become a habit, you can overcome it with practice. By recognizing what triggers your negative feelings, finding healthy alternatives and surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family, you can nip that habit in the bud in no time.
3. Throw yourself into something you love. Nothing fights dissatisfaction like doing things that make you feel oh so good, such as yoga with a friend, cooking a delicious, healthy meal or treating yourself to a relaxing facial. You deserve it!
While we may feel unhappy with our bodies at times, it’s important to recognize the implication this can have on everyone else in our lives. By appreciating who we are as we are, we can begin to love the skin we’re in and enjoy healthier, happier lives.
What are things that help you stay body positive? Tweet them at us @BritandCo!
(Photos via Getty)