For many, the body positivity movement has reshaped the way we think about our health and self-esteem. But what is body positivity, really? To put it simply, body positivity refers to the concept of embracing one’s own body despite its perceived flaws and rejecting harmful beauty standards. Since this mindset encourages self-love and body acceptance, some wonder how it fits with weight management and health-related goals. Body positivity and weight management do not have to be mutually exclusive. Let’s take a look at how to find a balance between body positivity and weight. The two concepts can go hand-in-hand quite harmoniously.
What Are Body Positivity and Body Neutrality?
Body positivity encourages people to love their bodies, regardless of physical appearances, sizes, and challenges (such as injuries or disabilities). While this approach is empowering for some, others may feel that constant positivity puts a lot of pressure on them.
That’s where body neutrality comes in.
Body neutrality takes a more relaxed approach. Instead of focusing on loving your body all the time, it’s about accepting it for what it is and appreciating what it can do. This way, you can simply appreciate where you’re currently at in your own skin. Plus, this mindset helps draw body focus to more functional things, rather than dwelling on perceived aesthetic imperfections.
Why Exercise is About More Than Just Your Weight
Exercise isn’t just about changing your appearance. The benefits of exercise go far beyond that. Regular movement can improve your mood, boost your energy, help you sleep better, and reduce stress. In addition, mild to moderate exercise can be helpful for individuals living with disabilities and chronic conditions.
Approaching exercise from a body-positive point-of-view is about viewing your fitness routine as a way to take care of yourself. Walking, doing yoga, or using at-home exercise equipment should focus on healthy movement and doing what feels good overall.
Practical Ways to Approach Fitness Mindfully
If the idea of hitting the gym feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you do not have to dive in and push yourself to the limit right away, if at all. Taking a mindful approach means listening to your body, doing what you can, and not holding your limitations against yourself.
On days when you’re low on energy, try something gentle like stretching or walking. On days when you’re feeling stronger, tackle a more intense workout. The key is to find balance and not force yourself into a routine that’s not right for you.
Adding in body image exercises can also be helpful. After a workout, take a moment to notice how your body feels. You might feel tired, sore, or even energized. Simply being aware is what matters.
Rethinking Weight and Health Goals
When most people think about health goals, they focus on losing weight. While losing weight can be helpful for maintaining overall wellness, the goal of working out should be improving your health first and foremost.
Instead of setting goals like losing 10 pounds, try setting goals like running a mile without stopping or lifting heavier weights during your routines. You’re still getting the exercise, but you’re tying the outcome to a healthy goal rather than the numbers on a scale.
Navigating the Challenges
Balancing body positivity with fitness isn’t always easy. Society often makes it seem like you have to pick one. You either love your body as it is or try to change it. But the reality is, you absolutely CAN do both.
You can appreciate your body for everything it does while also wanting to improve your health. There’s also nothing wrong with wanting to enjoy the way you look, just make sure you’re approaching appearance-related goals with kindness to yourself.
Tips for Finding Balance
- Focus on What Feels Good: Exercise for the energy boost, better sleep, and stress relief, not just for weight loss.
- Pick Activities You Enjoy: You don’t have to work out at a gym if it’s not what you enjoy. Instead, dance to music, go for a long walk on a local trail, or exercise while watching a show or movie you love.
- Practice Body Neutrality: On tough days, remind yourself that you don’t have to be “on” all the time. It’s okay to take a break, and if you’re dealing with a challenge, it’s okay to admit you’re having a hard time.
- Celebrate Small Wins: If you’re feeling less winded after a workout or you’re simply feeling a little more comfortable in your clothes, celebrate. It’s the small victories that keep us going.
Finding Your Own Balance
The balance between body positivity and weight management looks different for everyone. For some, it might mean focusing on movement and health without worrying about the scale. For others, it could involve setting fitness goals while practicing self-love and body neutrality.
What’s most important is finding an approach that works for you. By focusing on how your body feels and what you’re capable of, you can create a healthier and more sustainable relationship with your physical health.