The term, “body neutrality” has proven to become a bit of a buzzword over the last few years. However, what exactly does it mean? And how is it different from “body positivity?”
To put it simply, “body neutrality” relates to how one practices respect towards their body, without aiming to change it. Body neutrality differs from body positivity in that it doesn’t always require you to love your body, but rather to accept it.
So, body neutrality focuses more on the body’s abilities and non-physical characteristics than its physical appearance: if you practice body neutrality, you may tell yourself, “My body enables me to participate in activities I enjoy,” or “because of my amazing body, I can enjoy the foods I love.” Further, instead of focusing on how your body looks, body neutrality is about appreciating what it can do.
Similarly, the term, “body positivity” refers to the belief that all people deserve to have a positive body image regardless of how society views ideal body types, sizes, and appearances. Additionally, body positivity aims to explain how popular media messages affect the way people feel about food, exercise, clothing, health, identity, and self-care, and how these messages contribute to their relationship with their bodies. It is hoped that, by better understanding the impact of such influences, people will be able to develop a more realistic and healthy relationship with themselves.
Would you like to practice body neutrality in your own wellness journey?
Here are some things you can implement to start exploring body neutrality:
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable. As much as we try to squeeze into clothes that are too tight, it can lead to feelings of body shame; rather than tinkering with your outfit all day long, select whatever you feel most comfortable in – and if that means a t-shirt and some leggings, then that is totally okay!
Rationalize any spiraling thoughts. Before you spiral, thinking that your thighs are too large, and your arms are too flabby, ask yourself: “Are these thoughts helping me right now? Would it be beneficial to continue engaging with them?”
In these moments, you can make a choice; do you buy in and follow these thoughts, or do you pause and think of something neutral? For example, if your brain is screaming, “I look terrible,” try countering it with: “I am having a thought that I look terrible.” Through this, you may be able to realize that you, as a person, are not defined by these negative thoughts.
Cut off unwanted conversations. There’s no escaping the fact that you’ll be drawn into a diet- or body-related conversation – and it’s best to either redirect or not participate. In response to someone encouraging you to exercise to lose weight, you could explain that you exercise for the feelings it gives you, not so you will make you look a certain way.
Take your time. The goal of body neutrality isn’t a destination or an achievement; it’s a work in progress that we constantly strive for. It’s never too late to begin unlearning some of the things we’ve been taught for so many years – remember, be gentle with yourself!
References:
https://www.verywellmind.com/body-positivity-vs-body-neutrality-5184565
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-body-positivity-4773402
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/02/25/body-neutrality-definition/
-Sara Hoover, Graduate Assistant