I have talked about body image on here quite a bit, and a major part of that reason is the mixed emotions I have felt in regards to my own body throughout my life. With the help of many of the communities and spaces I have been a part of, I have made a conscious effort to examine where my body image comes from and transform it into something productive rather than destructive. Although that may seem like a simple statement to make, the process itself is a constant challenge. When you’ve spent a good portion of your energy hating on your body for years, it takes quite the effort to undo that damage. I feel like having a positive outlook on my body is a constant struggle, but one that is well wroth the effort.
For the class I facilitate, our midterm project focuses on body image. Since as facilitators, we do these projects along with out class, I wanted to do something that represented and honored that struggle. I also wanted to do something that would remind me of what I feel like when I am feeling body-positive for the days when I’m not feeling so happy about my body or am not feeling comfortable in my skin.
I ended up making a pretty poster (complete with little colored jewels) reminding myself of all the different reasons why I appreciate and love my body. At the same time, I made a list on a scrap piece of paper of all the negative things I have told myself or been told by other people. As I was making these two lists, I realized that most of the negative things I have thought about my body stem from comments other people have said to me which have been internalized, rather that something I’ve found inherently negative about my body. I also made another observation- many of the things I appreciate about my body have to do with what my body does for me rather than what it looks like. While I did write down certain things that had to do with my appearance (i.e., my curves are SEXY), many more concerned all the things I’m able to do (i.e., I can make things, it allows me to function and interact with the world) and how amazing that really is.
The poster is now hanging on the big wall over my bed, to remind me every time I get down on my body that there are many wonderful reasons to love and appreciate it. I hope this is one midterm project that will continue to inspire me long after the semester ends.
