Too often we are peddled a narrative of what the “ideal” body is and this is damaging to people’s self-worth and self-image. Body Positivity is a movement that encourages positive body image, as well as general self-image. The movement empowers people to love themselves and their bodies the way they are and dismantles the damaging societal narratives pushed upon us, whether that be about body shape, race, disability. Keep an eye on this page for details of this year's events.
Workshop
We have developed a workshop, focusing on the following.
- Subjective concepts of perfection and imperfection
- Challenge body-shaming thoughts and attitudes
- Practice techniques for increasing body-positivity over time
The sessions have now been delivered.
Student Blogs
Our students have provided their take on what body positivity means to them and why they are behind the campaign. To read what they have to say, click here.
Karli's Social Media Cleanse
- Unfollow those things that rob you of your precious time, like those meme pages
- Keep away from toxic content
- Follow positive influencers e.g. on Instagram
- Change that narrative on social media, because your thought processes will be affected by what you see and hear
Other Tips:
- Boundary social media time – so set times of the day that you engage in social media activity
- Disable social media notifications so you control when you look
- Arrange real life interactions
Take Inspiration
“Hating our bodies is something that we learn, and it sure as hell is something that we can unlearn.” – Megan Jayne Crabbe
“Remember that our bodies are always changing, and that’s okay. What’s really unhealthy is trying to fit into an unrealistic norm of what is seen as perfect.” – Olakemi
“Since I don’t look like every other girl, it takes a while to be okay with that. To be different. But different is good.” – Serena Williams
“I definitely have body issues, but everybody does. When you come to the realization that everybody does that—even the people that I consider flawless—then you can start to live with the way you are.” – Taylor Swift
“Your words have so much power. Every day, if you tell yourself ‘I love you,’ if you give yourself one word of validation, it will change your mind.” – Ashley Graham
“Step away from the mean girls and say bye-bye to feeling bad about your looks. Are you ready to stop colluding with a culture that makes so many of us feel physically inadequate? Say goodbye to your inner critic, and take this pledge to be kinder to yourself and others.” – Oprah Winfrey
“I keep telling myself that I’m a human being, an imperfect human being who’s not made to look like a doll.” – Emma Watson
“Be healthy and take care of yourself, but be happy with the beautiful things that make you, you.” – Beyonce Knowles
“Don’t waste so much time thinking about how much you weigh. There is no more mind-numbing, boring, idiotic, self-destructive diversion from the fun of living.” – Meryl Streep