Body image is the subjective image an individual has about their own body. One weaves perception based on what others feel about their body and what society rants regarding an idealistic physique, no matter how unrealistically unachievable it is.
The movement initially started to acknowledge women with plus body sizes and has now transformed into a platform for empowerment and self-expression. Men have been underrepresented in terms of their mental health and are bound to the term toxic masculinity.
They are hemmed in cultural expectations for not expressing their vulnerabilities; those who try are labeled ‘unmanly.’ Over time, as awareness grew, the movement was not only limited to women but men too.
It features people of different representations and fosters inclusivity by challenging unrealistic beauty standards set by the media or airbrushed magazines. The article explores the trajectory of the ‘perfect’ male physique to the need for body positivity and what measures can boost and enhance one’s self-being.
YOU are Unique
The prevalence of body image issues is typically because of unrealistic portrayals and advertisements by the media. Male body positivity promotes self-love in a man and helps to eradicate complications created by media influences.
Beauty standards are inconstant and shift by the dynamics of societal morals and media representations. By understanding the core concept of this fluctuating societal construct, one may save himself from hating his own body.
The hatred towards one’s own body results in one’s low esteem and unproductivity; it can be overpowered by body positivity. In a report, 79% of young people between the ages of 11-16 stated that how they look is important.
And when a child struggles with their body image, it deeply affects them in the times ahead unless, at any point in time, they take a step to be at peace with themselves. Everyone, regardless of gender, is unique and undergoes different experiences in life.
Therefore, there is no set of rules that implies to every individual living contented and to the fullest is the key to a happy and healthy life. Every moment is an opportunity to embrace, as every cloud has a silver lining.
Embracing Body Positivity: Small Steps for Men
For self-acceptance and to foster confidence, one needs to focus on self-care and to live up to the moments of life such as:
1.Enjoying Normal Tasks
Remember the little joy you felt while taking steps other than the elevator, completing your 10 thousand steps goals, lifting heavy groceries or playing with your kid; these activities may seem normal but require strength, mobility, and good health.
These activities don’t need defined abs but rather require overall good health. You should exercise not for appearance but for enjoyment and to attain a healthy life.
2.Dress for Comfort and Confidence
Every clothing is not made for all; comfort should be your first priority rather than chasing trends. A well-fit outfit that puts you at ease may boost your self-esteem.
Instead of pleasing society, you must consider your own comfort style- whether it is relaxed, tailored or athletic.
3.Celebrate Small Wins
Body positivity is a journey and cannot be embraced in the blink of an eye; every small step needs to be celebrated. Be it eating as per your calorie intake, sticking to the routine, hitting the gym, or going for a walk.
Acknowledging these small steps will help you to build consistency and, eventually, growth. This practice subconsciously inculcates the feeling of self-appreciation and eliminates room for self-criticism.
4.Embrace Nourishment, Not Restriction
Healthy eating is incredible, but eating with the thought of achieving a particular physique may be daunting. The essential theme of the body is growth, strength, and vitality.
Therefore, your focus should be on energizing and nourishing your body instead of sticking to a strict diet, as it ultimately leads to frustration and hormonal imbalance. Chiseled abs may not define your overall health in the long run, but a nourished body with good cardiovascular health is crucial.
5.Question Media Wellness
Being critical of the media wellness narratives involves the examination of unrealistic biases, often spread for the media or a brand’s own benefit. Such messages stimulate negative comparisons and unrealistic expectations and thrust the notion that having or achieving a perfect body is the final objective of an individual.
Since everything that you see on screen is not natural, it is made. Every individual is unique, and so is their body. The journey for body positivity begins with accepting yourself and being lovable, kind, and respectful to the body.
Rather than being critical of what you can’t do or how you can’t look like a certain type, be grateful for what you can perform.
Conclusion
Body positivity is a voyage through a turbulent sea, and only your ship, i.e., your body, can take you to the other shore. This journey starts with self-acceptance and thankfulness for existence.
Beauty is a societal construct, and media is the key pillar in rotting the minds of individuals, negatively impacting their mental and physical health. Although passive-aggressive remarks may appear like lighthearted conversation, they cause a lot of harm to the recipient.
Forcing them to involuntarily evoke insecurities. Only you should oversee your happiness, as beauty is defined by you and not society.
