Image of body
Everyone has a different image of their own body as well as an image of a body that they would like to have. In many cases, the image of the body they want is unattainable. In some cases, it is downright dangerous.
Women worry more about body image than men. Women read magazines with models that are super slender and want to look just like them. The struggle on a diet so that they can get to be a size 2. Not every woman, especially older women, is cut out to be a size 2. Some women have bigger bones and will never be any less than a 10. The average size for an American woman is a size 12.
Then there are those women who are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are a size 18 but dress like they are a size 2. They seem totally oblivious to the fact that they may be morbidly obese and at risk for a variety of illnesses, including cancer, and eat and drink as if there is no tomorrow. They have a positive body image, despite the fact that they are extremely overweight.
The image of the ideal female body has changed drastically over the past 100 years, although it was always preferred that women were on the slender side in the 20th century. However, we no longer see women with a 20 inch waist because she wore a corset as a child that kept her waist small. Women also no longer wear undergarments such as girdles that keep their stomachs and thighs slimmer. More women are being told to “let it all hang out.” And they are.
Having a good image of your body is essential to psychological health. A woman or a man who does not have a good body image may shy away from relationships or intimacy because they are afraid that someone will not like them because they are too fat.
Although it is important to like ourselves for who we are, it is equally important to be physically healthy. A person who is morbidly obese is at risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and a host of other disease, including certain cancers. In addition, those who are obese usually have back and knee problems, making it difficult for them to get around. Respiratory problems are also common among obese people.
A healthy body image comes from a realistic view of your body and your ideal weight. You should not be carrying around a lot of excess body fat as it can lead to disease. You should take care of your body as it truly is your temple.
By eating a healthy diet devoid of fast foods and preservatives, you can achieve a healthier weight. Also, you should watch what you drink and eliminate sugar laden sodas from your diet. Begin an exercise routine to burn additional calories, even if it includes just walking around the block.
