We are all different. You’re special and I’m special; we are all independently special in our own unique ways.
Trying to conform to western society’s unrealistic views of beauty and body shape takes its toll on us mentally and physically, and it’s dangerous.
For almost two years now I have gone without makeup with the exception of special occasions, where I may put on a little bit. The surprising thing was that, after a period of adjustment, I felt better about myself than I ever did wearing makeup.
However, I still obsessed about my body. I have muscle and I have fat, too. Every time I stepped on the scale I held my breath waiting for the inevitable blow to my self-esteem.
I bike to and from school, I eat a healthy diet, and my doctor tells me I’m in top shape. So why am I not a size six? Well, it’s because my body isn’t meant to fit into a size six without compromising my health.
Real women do not have curves. Real women are just independently variable in size, shape, and everything else that makes us who we are.
The key is to consider our overall health, physical and mental, as the measure of our view on beauty. It begins by ignoring the powerful messages from popular media that are always going to tell us we aren’t good enough.
Instead, reflect on yourself and your lifestyle (physical health and mental wellbeing) and promote a healthy sense of self, based on your own independent criteria.
I was able to find body acceptance once I started introspection, instead of attempting to conform to the beauty myth; I was able to find body acceptance once I started fitting my clothes to my body, rather than my body to my clothes.