In a world where body image struggles are nearly universal, Body Neutrality offers a path towards liberation. It’s a way of embracing our bodies without judgment, comparison, or shame. Here we explore Body Neutrality and provide practical steps to cultivate it for yourself.

Our recent survey of our community speaks volumes about the prevalence of body shame and its profound impact on our lives. Ninety-five percent of the 80 respondents revealed experiencing feelings of shame or embarrassment about their bodies. These emotions led more than half of them (53%) to avoid social situations or activities, hindering their personal growth and self-expression. Additionally, 42.5% admitted resorting to extreme or unhealthy behaviors, such as crash diets or excessive exercise, in an attempt to “fix” perceived imperfections.

But there is hope. We can rewrite our relationship with our bodies, breaking free from harmful societal standards. 

Becoming more body neutral does require some effort, which may seem counterintuitive to the overall goal of achieving a sense of ease with our bodies. Because we are constantly bombarded with messages about the “ideal” body type, countering that messaging inevitably demands deliberate actions. So we’re providing you with a few tips.  

WHAT IS BODY NEUTRALITY

Body neutrality encourages us to change how we think about our bodies. Instead of judging them based on looks, we shift to focussing on their value and appreciate their natural functions. The theory is based on the concept that our bodies are not objects meant for judgment, but tools that help us live our lives to the fullest. 

Instead of spending mental space thinking positively or negatively about your body, you give yourself the space to live your life. Acceptance is a huge part of body neutrality. You accept your body as it is and concentrate on the things your body does for you.  

6 WAYS TO BECOME MORE BODY NEUTRAL

These suggestions were chosen to be easily integrated into your daily life. We wanted to make sure they are not only practical but also rooted in sound psychological principles, without overwhelming you with jargon or seeming unapproachably hokey.

1. Meditation. We should all meditate more. It’s the best way to practice acknowledging and redirecting your thoughts, which is key to all of these recommendations. It takes 10 minutes a day. Do it. If you don’t know where to start, Headspace is a great, free app for guided meditation. 
2. Change Your Timeline. Unfollow, Mute, and Block are your friends. If you’re following someone who consistently makes you feel bad about yourself—remove them from your feed. When you come across accounts that have more diverse age and body representations, follow them.
3. Expose Yourself. Beyond social media, prioritize TV, movies, art, and literature that depict diverse bodies positively. Constant reminders that people look different reduces mental pressure to conform to one body type.
4. Exercise For Fun. Instead of exercising specifically to burn calories or look a certain way, find exercise you enjoy. If you’re a person who needs a goal, focus on celebrating personal improvement milestones.
5. Be Kind To Others. Notice when you’re judging or commenting on other people’s bodies and stop it. If you’re judging someone else, you’re more than likely judging yourself.
6. Notice When You’re Satisfied. Acknowledge the moments of joy and satisfaction throughout your day. Whether it’s laughter, inspiration, orgasms, tasting/smelling something great, or hugging a friend, take a moment to appreciate how your body enables these experiences.

And, if you want one-on-one help, Natural Pursuits’ founder, Phillip Miner, offers one-on-one coaching.

We plan on providing more tips but here are some more resources you can check out: Healthline. National Eating Disorder Association. Harvard Health.