Body shaming is something we all have experienced at least once in our life. We are shamed for being skinny, or voluptuous, for being heavy or pear-shaped, or just not being beautiful enough. We are shamed for our "Out of proportion" body parts. Nevertheless, we are hypocrites, as we too judge other people's figures, and never fail to remark upon them. It almost comes too naturally to us. However, one comment, even from an absolute stranger can scar us for life. That scar is so deep that it seeps into our skin and makes us question every part of our body. It makes us believe that we are not worthy to be seen in the public eye.
But have you ever wondered why do people body shame?
I have happened to observe one prime reason. Let me narrate to you a small incident.
I was in 7th class when I used to be teased by being called “Fat”. So, one day, I got into an argument with my classmate. He was healthier than me. Hence, to defeat my opponent, I strike at his weakness! I call him “FAT”!
Now, this may not be a big thing for you, but I felt very guilty that day. I went into introspection and realized why I did what I did. It was my first opportunity to use the “FAT card”. All the other times, people had used it on me. But this time I was in power. I said that TO MAKE MYSELF FEEL BETTER.
It was my way of self-defense. I used the “FAT card” before he could use it on me. I was tired of being made fun of, so for the first time, I wanted to experience the joy of being on the other side. The joy of having a “Better body”.
That day I realized something - We make fun of others to hide our own insecurities.
Another major reason, for body-shaming, is to fit into the unrealistic beauty standards. These false notions only cater to the beauty industries but have destroyed our self-confidence.
Every person has a different body type and it would be foolish to compare it with others! Our body is our own, and if we don't love it, we will end up not loving ourselves. Ultimately, we will turn bitter.
The emphasis should not be on being a certain way but on being fit and healthy. We should be comfortable in our skin and work towards its betterment not because we hate it but because we love it. Body shaming is a significant problem in our society and small steps taken by us can make huge differences. We must restrain ourselves from criticizing or remarking upon other people’s figures and correct people who do the same. Instead of getting affected when a person teases us for our body, we should pity them, instead of getting upset. Even help them to overcome their insecurities!
Only if we love ourselves can we spread that love.
And most importantly, change the way we see our own bodies, for there is no better home…
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