Body Image
counseling
tulsa, oklahoma
In our society,
we receive early teachings that attribute our worth to our physical appearance. Our external image significantly influences our self-perception and how we believe others view us. We are bombarded with images that have been digitally altered to conform to society's notion of flawlessness. However, these images are not only unattainable but also have a negative impact on our self-esteem. When we fixate on this aspect, we overlook the opportunity to uncover our genuine value and true significance.
do any of these reosonate?
Is your mood influenced by how you perceive your appearance?
Do you constantly worry about what others might think of how you look?
Do you believe that being thinner, more fit, having better hair, etc., would lead to greater happiness, success, or improved relationships?
Do you often criticize yourself for not having better control over your body?
Is dieting a consistent part of your routine?
Do thoughts of losing weight occupy your mind throughout the day?
Do you tend to avoid social situations when you're not feeling confident about your appearance?
Do you spend more time focusing on your weight/appearance compared to other aspects of your life?
Body image struggles are incredibly widespread.
It's rare for us to work with a client, whether male or female, who doesn't grapple with some form of concern about their body.
People tend to feel dissatisfied with aspects such as their weight, their build, or their muscle tone. This often becomes an area of their life that they feel compelled to address and manage.
We've been conditioned to believe that how we look on the outside can shape our entire world. We're led to think that by being more attractive and fitting a certain size, we can attain greater success, have better relationships, and experience more happiness. These messages come at us from various sources: media, family, friends, coworkers, and more.
However, adopting this mindset often results in depression, anxiety, and numerous other challenges. It's simply unattainable to constantly strive for a level of perfection that meets these unrealistic standards.
From as young as eight years old,
children begin to criticize their own bodies and even attempt diets. They're already absorbing the idea that they'll gain more acceptance and love if they fit a certain appearance. These messages and beliefs start to take shape so early in life that it can feel nearly impossible to shift these views. Many people find themselves defeated by this illogical way of thinking, not knowing how to change it.
These concepts become so deeply ingrained that we often unintentionally say things that reinforce and nurture this belief system. We tend to compliment children on their physical beauty far more frequently than we acknowledge their intelligence or creativity.
Often, we overlook or dismiss the fact that a person's genuine value and worth are determined by their inner qualities. People are drawn to those who radiate positivity because their inner beauty shines outward. A person's ideas, thoughts, beliefs, talents, and strengths are the true markers of their value and worth. When looking back on life, a person isn't remembered primarily for their appearance, but rather for the way they impacted others and contributed to the emotional, mental, or spiritual well-being of their family, friends, and society. It's essential that we start recognizing and appreciating these same qualities within ourselves that we admire in our friends, families, and role models.
At Exhale, we understand
that changing this belief system on your own can be quite challenging. Our therapists specialize in addressing body image concerns, whether they're relatively minor or more serious. We're aware that you're constantly bombarded with messages and notions that run counter to what you truly want to believe. Our goal is to collaborate with you in reshaping your thought patterns and providing you with effective tools to counteract the societal messages you encounter daily, which try to link your happiness to your appearance.