Body positivity and body confidence are terms we see all over social media, but what do they actually mean? 

Being confident in your own body means to love what you see when you look at yourself. Why is it that in this day and age most of us look in the mirror and rather than focusing on everything that’s good about ourselves, we focus on our imperfections? 

Unfortunately, social media plays a huge part in this negative feeling. 

We are blinded by images of airbrushed celebrities that we forget the fine line between perception and reality. 

Negative body image and low self-esteem can be a downward spiral and can onset conditions such as depression, eating disorders, poor development of social skills, unhealthy exercise routines, substance abuse and unhealthy dieting.

So how do we achieve body confidence? How do we stay positive about the way we look and feel when we look in the mirror? 

1. Avoid conversations about the way you look
How many of you have told your friend that you have gained a little weight around your stomach or that your thighs are big? Guilty! Your friends probably then feel obliged to point out one of their imperfections so that you don’t feel as bad! Stop! You are amazing, intelligent women who have better things to talk about. Discuss with your friends how this type of conversation makes you feel and make a pact to eliminate it from your friendship. 

2. Don’t avoid yourself
When you look in the mirror, don’t focus on the imperfections; instead tell yourself that you are beautiful and amazing. Focus on the positives and eventually this will become totally normal to you. 
Get to know all your lumps, bumps and wobbles because these things make us who we are – don’t be ashamed of them. The more you do to get in contact with and accept your body the way that it is, the more you are likely to develop better body image.

3. Surround yourself with positivity
I can’t say this enough – surround yourself with positive and supportive people! Eliminate people from your life that put you down, who hurt your feelings and who have only negative things to say. The turning point in my life was when I did EXACTLY this, and because of it, EVERYTHING changed! Making new friends with similar interests can also help boost your confidence. 

4. Eat mindfully
This means thinking carefully about what you are feeding your body. Make sure you are fuelling yourself with the correct nutrients. Eat plenty of good food – this has a positive impact on mood and energy levels.  

5. Take care of yourself
Treat your body well, go for a massage, have a facial, spoil yourself!  Take care of your body; it’s the only place you have to live! Treating yourself well over time results in a healthier, stronger body and that contributes to a better body image.  

Falling in love with yourself first doesn’t make you vain or selfish, it makes you indestructible. Follow me on Instagram @rosiegetsfit_