Understanding Body Acceptance

In the age of Instagram and fitfluencers, the concept of "body positivity" - celebrating all bodies regardless of size or appearance - can seem like an unattainable ideal. While well-intentioned, the #BoPo movement on social media often promotes unrealistic standards that make true self-love a challenge for the average person.

That's where "body acceptance" comes in. Rather than striving to love every inch of yourself unconditionally, body acceptance is about recognizing and accepting the parts of your body you like and don't like - without shame or judgment. It's a healthy middle ground between relentlessly positive self-talk and self-criticism.

Body Image vs Body Confidence

To better understand body acceptance, it's helpful to distinguish between body image and body confidence. "Body image encompasses all the pieces of how you think about yourself and your body," explains body image expert Erica Mather. In contrast, body confidence relates more to how the world perceives you. You can project outward confidence while still struggling with negative body image.

Putting Body Acceptance Into Practice

For me, body acceptance means making peace with my so-called "problem areas" and focusing instead on all the amazing things my body allows me to do - like playing with my kids, walking in nature, and savoring a beautiful summer day. Shifting my mindset has helped stabilize my weight by making exercise about the endorphin boost rather than "fixing flaws". I'm more inclined to listen to my body's cues for rest and enjoy dessert in moderation, knowing realistically I'll never have a six-pack.

Your version of body acceptance might look different. Maybe body positivity resonates with you, or you prefer the body neutrality stance of your physical self being a non-issue. The healthiest perspective is highly individual. "It depends on the person, their experience, what type of inner work they've already done, and how their body presents," says Mather.

Moving Toward Body Acceptance

However you relate to your body, release the expectation of having to automatically flip a switch and start loving aspects you once disliked. "Not loving certain parts of yourself is okay, you're a human being. The most important thing is you don't judge yourself," Mather advises.

Instead, begin cultivating body acceptance by tuning into your body and what it finds pleasurable - whether that's wearing comfy clothes, engaging in joyful movement, receiving caring touch, or spending time in spaces you enjoy. "Find where your joy is," says Mather, "and meeting your goals inherently becomes easier." By practicing body acceptance, you create the conditions for positive change to unfold naturally.