Navigating Body Positivity and Body Neutrality: A Journey to Self-Love
In today's society, conversations surrounding body image have evolved, giving rise to two empowering concepts: body positivity and body neutrality. I’ve been thinking about these concepts a lot lately, even to understand my own views of my own body as it has begun changing in my 40s.
Body positivity emerged as a movement to challenge societal beauty standards, promoting self-acceptance and appreciation for all body types. It emphasises celebrating one's unique attributes and fostering a positive body image. On the other hand, body neutrality takes a different approach. It suggests shifting the focus from appearance to what our bodies can DO for us. It encourages acknowledging and accepting the body without excessive praise or criticism, encouraging a more neutral perspective.
The roots of body positivity trace back to the 1960s and 1970s, growing out of the feminist movement. It gained momentum in the 2000s with social media playing a pivotal role. Body neutrality, a more recent concept, gained prominence as a nuanced alternative to the sometimes intense positivity movement. Both concepts mark a shift towards inclusivity, challenging unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by media. They encourage individuals to embrace their bodies, fostering a culture of self-love and acceptance.
In today's fast-paced world, the impact of body positivity and neutrality extends beyond personal well-being. They contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society, challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting mental health.
The journey to self-love is a personal one, and both body positivity and body neutrality offer valuable perspectives. Whether celebrating unique features or embracing a neutral stance, the ultimate goal is nurturing a positive relationship with one's body.
I’ve put together a few ideas of how you can embrace both body positivity and body neutrality in your journey towards self-love.
Body Positivity: Celebrating Your Unique Beauty
Self-Reflection: Start by reflecting on your individual features and what makes you unique. Identify aspects of your body that you appreciate, whether it's your curves, scars, or any other distinctive traits.
Positive Affirmations: You know I’m a HUGE fan of affirmations. Incorporate positive affirmations into your daily routine. Affirmations can help reshape your mindset, fostering self-love and acceptance. Repeat phrases that highlight your beauty and worth.
Surround Yourself Positively: Engage with body-positive content on social media and in real life. Follow influencers, artists, and photographers who celebrate diverse bodies. Surrounding yourself with positivity can uplift your own perception.
Intimate Portraiture: Consider exploring an intimate Body & Soul Boudoir photoshoot with me. Such sessions can be a powerful tool for reconnecting with your body and celebrating its unique beauty in a safe and empowering environment.
Body Neutrality: Shifting Focus to Functionality
Mindful Practices: Engage in mindful practices that redirect your focus from appearance to functionality. Activities like yoga, meditation, or any form of exercise can help you appreciate the capabilities of your body rather than fixating on its appearance.
Practice Gratitude: Develop a sense of gratitude for what your body allows you to do. Whether it's dancing, walking, or simply breathing, acknowledging these functions can cultivate a more neutral and appreciative perspective.
Normalise Neutral Thoughts: Whenever you find yourself critiquing your appearance, consciously replace those thoughts with neutral observations. Instead of focusing on perceived flaws, recognise your body without attaching judgment—neither positive nor negative.
Tania Fernandes Portraits Experience: Consider a Body & Soul Boudoir or Embodied Series portrait session with me, where the emphasis is not only on capturing physical beauty but also on portraying the strength, resilience, and uniqueness of each woman. This experience can contribute to a more neutral and accepting view of your body.
Embracing body positivity and body neutrality is not an either-or scenario. The key is finding a balance that works for you. Celebrate your unique beauty while appreciating your body's functionality. Tania Fernandes' approach to intimate portraiture aligns with this integrated perspective, capturing the essence of both positivity and neutrality.
Remember, the journey to self-love is personal, and it's okay to navigate these concepts at your own pace. Incorporate elements from both body positivity and body neutrality that resonate with you, creating a holistic and empowering approach to self-acceptance.