The transition from school to uni life can be challenging on our self-esteem and body image. With all the academic demands, social pressures and personal growth going on, building and maintaining a positive body image is one of the most impactful forms of self-care you can undertake.
But as nice and simple as body image positivity sounds, putting it into practice can be quite a difficult journey for many of us. So, here are some practical tips to help you foster a healthy body image and celebrate your unique self as you step into the exciting new world of university.
What is positive body image?
Body image refers to how you perceive your own body and how you feel about your physical appearance. Having a positive body image means you’re able to accept your body as it is (including any perceived imperfections) and feel comfortable in your own skin.
People with a healthy body image recognise and respect their body’s unique abilities and functionality, regardless of how much they might conform to what society considers ‘attractive’.
Importantly, this form of self-love looks different for everyone, and having a ‘perfect’ body isn’t required for body image positivity. In fact, striving for perfection can make it almost impossible to achieve a positive body image, as you’ll always find new things about yourself that could be improved.
10 tips for achieving body image positivity
1. Prioritise self-kindness
University life can be stressful, but remember to treat yourself with kindness. Any time you notice harmful self-criticism in your thoughts, make a concerted effort to replace it (or at least balance it) with self-compassion.
Imagine if a close friend was struggling with the same problem as you. How would you speak to them? Try talking to yourself in the same way. You wouldn’t tell a friend something that compromises their healthy body image, so don’t tell yourself those things either.
2. Focus on movement that’s right for you
Exercise can be hugely beneficial for anyone, but it’s most effective when it gives you an innate sense of pleasure, strength and accomplishment – rather than being a chore you only complete due to an obsession with body image.
You’ll get much more out of exercising if you learn to move in a way that’s right for you and makes you feel good, and this will often lead to an increase in overall psychological wellbeing as well as body image positivity.
3. Curate a positive circle
Surround yourself with friends who uplift and inspire you. Unfollow social media accounts that promote unrealistic beauty standards. Connect with individuals who value diversity and celebrate different body types.
4. Challenge beauty norms
Media often portrays unattainable beauty ideals, and it’s important to recognise that this isn’t an accurate reflection of reality or a fair representation of positive body image.
Challenge these norms by seeking out content that celebrates diversity and authenticity. Embrace your unique features and redefine what beauty means to you.
5. Practise gratitude for your body
Shift the narrative from criticism to gratitude. Focus on what your body can do – its strength, resilience, and ability to experience life's pleasures. Engaging in activities you love can foster a sense of appreciation.
6. Set up self-care rituals
Craft self-care routines that make you feel confident and empowered, embedding body image positivity into your day-to-day life.
Whether it's a skincare regimen, dressing in a way that resonates with your style, or engaging in hobbies, prioritise activities that boost your self-esteem.
7. Try mindful reflection
Practise mindfulness by gently redirecting negative thoughts about your body. Pause and ask if these thoughts are helpful. If not, replace them with affirming and positive affirmations.
8. Seek support when needed
If negative body image is impacting your wellbeing, consider getting guidance from a professional. University counselling services can provide valuable tools to navigate these challenges.
9. Embrace progress, not perfection
Building a positive body image takes time. Progress may not always be linear, and that's alright. Each step forward is a victory. Celebrate every moment of self-acceptance.
10. If you can’t be positive yet, work towards neutrality first
We don’t need to be defined by our bodies. Our lives are rich, interesting, and multifaceted in a way that is largely unrelated to what sort of body we exist in.
If you feel like you’re several steps away from reaching body image positivity, don’t be discouraged by the journey ahead. Instead, make body image neutrality your next milestone.
Using the strategies above, such as challenging negative body talk, critiquing media that tells you appearance is everything, and focusing on what your body can do rather than what it looks like, may help you become more neutral. And then you can turn your attention to moving towards a positive body image from there.
Final thoughts: body image positivity at university
Uni is a time of discovery and growth, and your journey towards creating and maintaining a healthy body image can be an empowering aspect of this experience. Embrace your uniqueness, nourish your body, and foster a deep sense of self-love.
By practising these tips, you'll nurture the foundation for a confident and positive relationship with your body that will serve you well beyond your university years.
Interested in the ways movement, nutrition and psychology can all impact body image positivity? Consider studying a Bachelor of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences or a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours).
