Tips to Improve Your Body Image

Do Positive Self-Affirmations Daily!
It is what on the inside that counts the most!

Wear clothes that you feel comfortable in.
Don't wear clothes that feel too tight or restrict movement.

Dress to express yourself, not to impress others.
You should feel good in what you wear.

Cut labels out of your clothes.
The size on the tags shouldn't dictate your mood for the day!

Stay away from the scale-as a matter of fact, get rid of it!
If your weight needs to be monitored, leave that up to the doctors.
How much you weigh should never affect your self-esteem or your sense of who you are.

Before you look into the mirror, think optimistically!
When you start your day, decide how you are feeling before going to the mirror.

Stay away from fashion magazines.

Make a "why I like myself" list.
Think of all of the things about YOU that you like-are you honest? Creative? Intelligent?

Think of all the reasons you deserve to love yourself and write them down.
Hang the list up next to the mirror as a reminder that these things are what make you truly beautiful.

Take the time to do nice things for your body.

Go places you'd never go alone.
Ever go to a movie alone? Go to a coffee shop to read?
Spend time with yourself. That is the first person you need to get to know and love spending time with.
Take the risk and try it.

Stay alert to fighting negative self-talk.

Stay active.
Find fun ways to stay active. Try Yoga. Go for a walk and admire nature.

Ask for a hug when you need it.

Protect the child in you.
Look at children around you now. Would you criticize them for being themselves?
Are you focused on the weight of a five-year-old?
Wouldn't you protect a child who was being picked on?
Well you don't deserve to be picked on either, and you don't deserve to be picked on by yourself!

Remind yourself that the people, who truly love you, love you for YOU, not for what you look like.

Remind yourself that looking healthy is something positive.
It means that you are well rested, eating right and nurturing your soul.
It means no more than that, and no less than that.

Read books that help you improve your self-image.

Remember the whole world.
We are all different and we are supposed to be that way.
It would be an incredibly boring world if we all looked exactly the same.
It's a truly special experience to look around and realize that everyone is beautiful, no matter what size,
color or gender they are. There is beauty in everyone and that includes you!

Disclaimer: The information found on this site is intended as educational information only. You SHOULD NOT rely on the information to make any medical or legal decisions. Any medical or other decisions should be made in consultation with your health care provider. Any legal decisions should be made in consultation with your legal representative. The Student Center for Health and Well-Being will not be liable for any complications, injuries, or other medical accidents arising from, or in connection with the use of, or reliance upon, any information on the web site.