Body Neutrality - A Middle Ground

What is Body Neutrality?

Body neutrality is the idea of neither loving nor hating your body, but simply accepting it and

appreciating all that it does. It is not feelings of intense emotion, but rather a middle ground to

body positivity and toxicity.

Origins

The term ‘body neutrality’ first appeared in 2015 by certified intuitive eating counselor and

eating disorder specialist Anne Poirier. It is used to help build an appreciative relationship with

the body and to focus more on how much our body does for us as opposed to how it looks. Our

body is a very small part of who we are, and, given that much of how we look is genetic, it

shouldn't be used as a dominating factor in how we feel about ourselves.

Benefits

Body neutrality is an amazing goal to have as it replaces the idea that our self worth is based on

our bodies. Focusing on the internal aspects our body has to offer us, such as helping us

breathe and move, can help create a larger appreciation for our bodies while decreasing the

emphasis on physical appearance. Focusing on neutrality can also help lessen the stress

associated with achieving body positivity. Trying to force oneself to recite positive things they

don't believe about their body can strengthen the stress and guilt of not loving your body. Of

course, body positivity is a very respectable mindset to reach that takes lots of hard work to

achieve, but for some neutrality is a much better option.

Sources

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