332: The epidemic of body image anxiety

We read an article this week from the ABC Radio National about the epidemic of body image anxiety. Philosopher and author Heather Widdows says that "we've gone from beauty being one thing we care about to being almost defining of who we are. Societal pressure leads to image obsession."

Body image anxiety has been a big part of our lives. With Carla starting her first diet at age 11, Emma developed bulimia from ages 17-23. We always had this belief that our bodies were not good enough. We felt that social pressure for years. We're so grateful for the work we've done to be here, at a place of self-acceptance. We discuss the above article and talk about how we moved through our body image anxiety.

This is what we spoke about during the episode

• Body image issues are more apparent because we love in a connected and more visual culture. The influence of social media leads to unhealthy comparisons.
• Ageism and the obsession with youth.
• Let's embrace our changing faces and acknowledge the utter privilege of ageing.
• How do we deal with body image issues? Stop talking about other people's bodies and what they should do and don't do.
• The truth is that our beauty does not define who we are and that we are so much more than just what we look like.
• When a thought comes to your mind that you're ugly or fat or have a big nose or whatever it is, interrupt your thought pattern and remind yourself of the truth. That beauty is not just skin deep. That what you look like is the least important thing about you.
• How to interrupt the thought pattern? Get up and shake it off! If you're a MerryBody member, put on a class or a meditation.

If you have body image anxiety, using your exercise routine as a way to practise the opposite of that, that being self-acceptance, is a total game-changer. This is how we continue to move through any body image anxiety we feel. With this self-acceptance practice, you're moving your body, you're present in your body and you're able to show gratitude for your body.

If you have more questions about this or if something resonated with you, we would love to hear from you. Send us an email at carla@themerrymakersisters.com or emma@themerrymakersisters.com or message us on our Facebook and Instagram accounts @themerrymakersisters.

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Always merrymaking,

Emma + Carla

P.s if you ever need further help or guidance please contact Lifeline or Beyond Blue. Asking for help is pure courage.

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