I’ve been in a larger body for as long as I can remember. If you share this experience, we might have a lot in common. Today, I want to discuss some important considerations for those of us who identify with fat bodies, especially regarding self-acceptance. I believe we can improve our outlook.
For much of my life, I struggled with my size. Even now, there are days when negative thoughts creep in, whispering that I’m not enough. However, in recent years, I’ve shifted my perspective on my body. Today, I prioritize my health and happiness over societal ideals about size or shape, and it feels liberating.
A significant part of my journey involved confronting my own biases against larger bodies. This realization was painful, but I worked hard to change my perspective on weight and size. Many of us carry around biases about fatness that need addressing—right now.
It’s not entirely our fault; diet culture has surrounded us for so long. However, it is our responsibility to strive for improvement. Perhaps you hold onto beliefs about which fat bodies are more acceptable or desirable. Do you think smaller fat individuals are more attractive simply because they align more closely with societal standards? Have you ever judged someone’s health based on appearance alone? If someone is larger but reports being healthy, would you still have doubts? These biases can cloud our ability to appreciate ourselves and others in their entirety.
We must move away from the obsession with thinness as a measure of health and beauty, rejecting the notion that health is the ultimate standard for worth. Not everyone can achieve health, and many individuals of all sizes face chronic health issues. They too deserve a place in discussions about self-love and body acceptance.
I can’t envision returning to a mindset that ranks bodies hierarchically. It’s a heavy burden to bear, and I’m grateful for the peace I’ve found in accepting that my body is not inferior to thinner bodies. Everyone deserves to feel joy and contentment in their own skin.
If we as fat individuals perceive women solely based on their body size and shape, we’re perpetuating the same harmful messages that society imposes on us daily.
It is true that some people experience more validation in their bodies—typically those who are cis, white, thin, and athletic. I understand the frustration when we see them included in body positivity discussions. It’s crucial to recognize that many bodies enjoy validation simply because they exist.
I often need spaces that focus exclusively on fat bodies to feel seen and understood. That’s perfectly valid. We need to celebrate our experiences and sometimes focus on fat bodies without mentioning that it’s okay to be thin too. However, we must be cautious not to create toxic environments under the guise of community support.
As we advocate for fat acceptance, we must also acknowledge the struggles of those in smaller bodies. Our message remains strong even when we invite others into the conversation. Everyone, regardless of their body size, deserves to feel comfortable and at peace in their own skin.
Finding that peace can manifest differently for each individual. While I needed to change my mindset, others may need to alter their bodies to achieve comfort. I wholeheartedly support anyone who decides to make changes to their body to find that peace. Just remember, you are enough today, regardless of your size. Nourish yourself with the right foods and engage in movement that feels good for you.
Fat individuals are well-positioned to challenge unrealistic beauty standards. We are experts in this fight, and while it’s crucial to affirm, “Our fat bodies are beautiful,” we must also declare, “All bodies are beautiful!” It’s essential to embrace every body type—fat, thin, “perfect” Hollywood figures, post-baby bodies, trans bodies, and those who are both growing and shrinking.
To truly embrace body positivity, we need to celebrate and validate all human bodies, or our efforts may ultimately feel hollow.
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In summary, body positivity should encompass all shapes and sizes, encouraging a world where every individual feels valued and accepted.