Body image is a person’s perception of their physical appearance and their level of attractiveness. Concerns regarding one’s body image are common. These worries frequently centre on one’s weight, skin, hair, or the size or shape of a certain bodily part.

The human body’s beauty has been valued by people throughout history. These ideas are frequently shaped by society, the media, social media, and popular culture, which can change how an individual perceives their own body.

People who are constantly exposed to media pictures may feel uneasy about their bodies, which can be distressing and unhealthy. It may also impact other facets of life, such as job and social interactions.

This article will look into positive and negative body image and offer some advice on how to improve one’s physical appearance.

Having a positive body image includes accepting and appreciating the whole of one’s body, including how it looks and what it can do, having a broad concept of beauty, having a body image that is stable and having inner positivity. 

On the other hand, a person with a negative body image feels dissatisfied with their body and their appearance. They constantly compare themselves with others and feel inadequate when doing so, feel ashamed or embarrassed resulting in a lack of confidence or low self-esteem. They see parts of their body, such as their nose, in a distorted way.

Here are 12 tips to improve your body image 

1. Spend time with optimistic people.
2. Engage in constructive self-talk. Instead of saying “My arms are flabby,” say “My arms are powerful.”
3. Put on comfortable clothing that compliments your figure.
4. Do not compare yourself to others.
5. Keep in mind that beauty transcends mere physical appearance.
6. Enjoy the things your body is capable of, like laughing, dancing, and creating.
7. Be actively critical of media messages and images that make you feel as if you should be different.
8. Make a list of 10 things you like about yourself.
9. See yourself as a whole person, not an imperfect body part.
10. Do something nice for your body, such as getting a massage or a haircut.
11. Instead of spending time thinking about your body, start a hobby, become a volunteer, or do something else that makes you feel good about yourself.
12. Aim for a healthful lifestyle, which might include eating a varied and nutritious diet.

Negative body image can lead to some health problems like eating disorders, depression or mental health problems. If you feel that you or someone in your life may be experiencing body image or eating concerns, seek professional help. Professional support can help guide you to change harmful beliefs and behaviours, and establish greater acceptance of your body.