Women and a healthy body image

It is rare today for women to feel good about their bodies. The incredible pressure on women to be thin is unprecedented. The diet, fashion, and cosmetics industries rely on people's desire to change the way they look so it is closer to society's ideal.

Some ideas on creating a healthy body image:

Pay attention to the way you talk to yourself. Stop those voices in your head that tell you your body is not "right." You can overpower those negative thoughts with positive ones. The next time you start to tear yourself down, build yourself back up with a few positive thoughts.

Keep a top-10 list of things you like about yourself – things that aren't related to how much you weigh or what you look like. Read your list often.

Surround yourself with positive people. It is easier to feel good about yourself and your body when you are around others who are supportive and who recognize the importance of liking yourself just as you naturally are.

Make decisions. Practice making and implementing positive decisions flexibly but firmly, and trust yourself to deal with the consequences. When you assert yourself, you enhance your sense of yourself, learn more, and increase your self-confidence.

Set a good example. Children watch and imitate what they see. They can pick up on their parents' attitudes and concerns about food and eating. Teach them to like themselves the way they are, and to enjoy healthy food and exercise in moderation.

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