How to Maintain a Positive Body Image While Recovering

Body image is a complex concept defining who we are and how we see ourselves. The images we may hold for ourselves can threaten our sense of identity. Similarly, recovering from an eating disorder can be challenging, so it is essential to maintain a positive image of self during recovery. This article will discuss the benefits of having a positive body image, including ways to cultivate this feeling.

What are Some Benefits of Having a Positive Body Image During Recovery?

Maintaining a positive body image during recovery can be challenging, but it is vital for overall mental and emotional well-being.₁ Holding positive images of ourselves can improve self-esteem and self-acceptance, which are essential to successful recovery. Similarly, this image can aid in supporting nutritional relationships with food.

How Can I Focus on a Positive Body Image During Recovery?

There are many ways to focus on a positive body image during recovery. The most important thing is to celebrate your body’s capabilities and what it gives you in return. For instance, your body fuels your activities and allows you to engage in activities that matter to you. Your body is strong, so you are strong. Avoid using negative self-talk when discussing your body; think about the strengths rather than focusing on what you might see as weaknesses.₂

Feel gratitude each day for those strengths your body gives you, even if you thank your body for getting you out of bed today.

What Techniques Can I Use to Boost My Body Image During Recovery?

Many techniques can help boost your body image during recovery:

• Focus on the journey. Instead of fixating on the result, focus on your progress toward recovery. Celebrate the small victories and improvements you see in your mental and physical health. Most importantly, forgive yourself quickly if you hit bumps in the road.
• Surround yourself with positive influences, including people who support your recovery and celebrate your progress. Avoid comparing yourself with others; focus on yourself and your recovery.
• Engage in self-care activities that promote self-love. Practices such as meditation, journaling, and using writing or the arts to express yourself can all be helpful ways of getting your emotions out while remaining positive and focused on moving toward recovery.₂

How Can I Reduce Negative Self-talk About My Body

During Recovery?

Negative self-talk can be damaging at the best of times and even more so during recovery. Be mindful of the language you use to talk about yourself and how you refer to yourself in your mind and when talking with others. Reframe negative thoughts and focus on positive self-affirmations.₁

Seek professional help to assist with reframing negative thoughts. If you are struggling with body image and negative thoughts about yourself, consider the service of a mental health or eating disorder professional. They can provide you with tools and strategies to promote positive body image.

Remember, recovery is a journey, and it takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself and focus on progress, not perfection. Practice gratitude for your strengths and all you have overcome so far.

Treatment centers like Magnolia Creek can help your recovery by providing information to support your psychological, medical, spiritual, nutritional, and relational needs. Contact us at 205-235-6989 or complete our contact form.

 

 

References

1. Better Health. (n.d.). Body image – women. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/body-image-women
2. Eating Disorder Hope. (2017, August 28). Top 5 Ways to Boost Body Image in Recovery https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/blog/5-ways-boost-body-image

 

Author Bio:

Kim English is a Nursing Professor and has been teaching nurses at the undergraduate and postgraduate level since 2002. Kim has supported a family member through the lived experience of eating disorders and works to advocate for support in rural areas.