Endless curated images and unrealistic beauty standards on social media are placing overwhelming pressure on the younger generation to achieve a so-called “perfect” body. According to new research by EduBirdie, 40% of Gen Z experience body image concerns after scrolling through social media. 

This is why plus size influencers, bloggers, vloggers, and creators are so important. Their presence helps us navigate the images, the messaging, and the pressures that society may try to place on us, with their standards of beauty. It’s no surprise that Google searches for ‘why do I hate my body’ have surged by 89% in the past month!

But it doesn’t have to be this way! To fight this pressure, here are some handy tips for building and establishing your own body positive messages this summer into fall.

8 Self-Care Practices to Help Improve How YOU see Your Body

1. Clear up your social media feeds

Hit mute, unfollow, or block those social media accounts that spread negativity and thrive on making people feel inadequate. Replace them with influencers, activists, and creators who celebrate diversity and promote self-love instead. Put your mental health first and create a feed that lifts your spirits instead of dragging you down. 

2. Practice self-compassion

All that kindness you show others? Treat yourself the same way. Whether you’ve run a marathon or binge-watched your favorite series in record time, you’re doing great—so replace that negative self-talk with positive affirmations!

3. Engage in enjoyable exercise

Exercise is important, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you want to dance, swim, practice yoga, or climb a mountain, do what you love. And listen to your body. If an activity makes you feel worn out and miserable instead of energized and happy, try something new.

4. Nourish your body

Restrictive diets won’t make you feel better—You’ll feel guilty every time you eat something with a little flavor. You don’t need to cut out your favorite foods and avoid carbs at all costs; you need to tune into your hunger and fullness signals.

5. Snap the real you

Stop heavily editing or adding a filter over every photo you take. Capture the real you, and you will soon become comfortable in your own skin. You’re beautiful, so show confidence and be proud of your authenticity.

6. Wear what you love

Clear out your wardrobe of anything that doesn’t fit your body or make you feel good. Then head out for some retail therapy and invest in clothes that make you feel your best—not anybody else.

7. Celebrate your individuality

Every body is unique and should be celebrated. Accept what makes you unique. Instead of comparing yourself to others, consider what you appreciate about your physique. Celebrate your unique traits, whether they are freckles, curves, or scars. They describe your narrative and define who you are.

8. Set boundaries with others

It’s okay to set boundaries with friends, relatives, or coworkers who make negative remarks about your body or appearance. Tell them how their comments affect you and that you prefer interactions that foster positivity and self-love. Surrounding oneself with encouraging individuals can make a significant difference in how you perceive yourself.

About the Author:

Marina Klimenka, wellness expert and visionary Co-founder of the face yoga app Luvly.