In this episode, we’ve invited Siti Mariam, Principal Therapist at Private Space Medical. Here, she’ll be sharing expert advice and insightful tips for exploring and adapting through self-criticism, societal influences, and the impact of social media during the journey of achieving self-acceptance and body positivity. We’ll also dive deep into the importance of having a good enough mindset, understanding and reframing intentions, and managing surrounding influences in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Join us as we embark on an inspiring exploration of upgrading one's personal journey and embracing our own skin by fostering a healthy relationship with our body and mind.
What to Listen For
- Body positivity is more than just about physical appearance, it is related to psychology, attitude, and understanding what is good about oneself beyond looks.
- How one appraises, evaluates, and assesses themselves defines one’s self-criticism.
- Societal influences and expectations related to economics and lifestyle through social media that encourage self-comparison and self-criticism.
- The desire for acceptance and pressure to live the ideal lifestyle that is showcased by influencers and social media.
- The importance of understanding the motivation behind wanting to live a certain lifestyle or appearance.
- The concept of being "good enough" and reframing intentions for a healthier perspective on body positivity and fitness.
- Being content with their current life while striving for a better future, avoiding excessive self-criticism and obsession with appearances.
- Encouragement to reframe intentions for a healthy lifestyle, serving Allah and others, to avoid becoming overly obsessed with appearance and body image.
- Societal pressure on daughters in the community to meet high expectations and how it can contribute to self-criticism.
- Highlighting the impact of social media influencers and their curated images on body image perceptions.
- The importance of recognizing and understanding that social media influencers may not always show their true selves and that their images are often carefully presented.
- Differentiating between being inspired or influenced by someone's appearance, and aspired, which is the desire to achieve a particular look.
- Discussion about the misconceptions surrounding body positivity, the intention behind wanting to look a certain way, and drawing the line between striving for a healthier lifestyle and becoming obsessed with appearance and body image.
- Emphasizing the idea of doing everything for Allah and reframing intentions to find blessings in our pursuits, whether it be for health or self-improvement.
- Balancing between striving for a better life while being content with one's current situation and avoiding excessive comparison with others.
- Understanding one's motivations, being good enough, and striving for a healthy lifestyle with the right intentions to ensure they align with one's values.
- Knowing yourself and limiting exposure to negative influences by taking control of what to consume on social media. Take a break from social media if needed to reduce the impact of negative influences on body image.
- Developing an inner cheerleader to counter the inner critic, foster self-acceptance, and give a positive voice that supports and encourages you.
- Building yourself a safe space with external cheerleaders, like supportive friends, family, or a partner, can also help boost self-esteem and self-acceptance.
- Accept that body positivity fluctuates, it is not a linear journey, and it's okay to have bad days. Be kind to yourself during challenging times.
- Loving oneself can be challenging, and it's normal to have ups and downs in self-esteem.
- Focusing more on the positive aspects of your physical features, such as liking your eyes, and work with them to boost self-confidence.
- Seek help from professionals with support from family and friends if struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, or societal pressure, as these are serious conditions that require support and treatment.
- Encourage others to seek professional help if you notice someone struggling with body image or eating disorders.
- Promoting the idea that everyone deserves support and understanding, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Understand that first impressions matter, and it's natural to want to make a good impression on others, but it shouldn't overshadow self-acceptance.
- Encourage others to seek professional help if you notice someone struggling with body image or eating disorders.
- Remember that body positivity is not limited to women, as men can also suffer from body image issues and eating disorders.
- Self-criticism is normal, but it's essential to balance it with self-compassion and self-love.
- The importance of individual worth and self-value beyond physical appearance.
Selected Links From the Episode
Private Space Medical
Website | Instagram
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