Body Shame: How It Harms Us and Why Self-Compassion Heals

Happyish Ever After: Love Your Life, Build Emotional Wellbeing, And Lose Weight

In this episode, Tatiana dives into the dark side of diet culture – body shame. She explores how societal messages and even healthcare professionals can make us feel inadequate and unworthy because of our body size. But here's the truth: shame is not a motivator, and it doesn't lead to lasting health changes. Tatiana calls on the work of Brené Brown to explain why shame backfires, and explores the power of self-compassion as a path to a healthier body.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.

Key Points:

• Body Shame is Everywhere: From airbrushed magazine covers to subtle comments from family, we're constantly bombarded with messages that equate thinness with beauty and value. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a distorted body image.
• Shame Doesn't Work: Shame might make you feel bad about yourself, but it won't help you reach your health goals. Studies show that shame-based weight loss approaches have high recidivism rates.
• The Power of Self-Compassion: Brené Brown defines shame as saying "I am bad." Self-compassion, on the other hand, is about treating yourself with kindness and understanding, even when you make mistakes.
• The Three Elements of Self-Compassion: According to Kristen Neff, self-compassion consists of self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.
  • Self-kindness: Be gentle with yourself, you wouldn't talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself!
  • Common humanity: Remind yourself that everyone struggles, and challenges around weight and body image are common.
  • Mindfulness: Acknowledge your feelings without judgment. Don't get swept away by negativity.

Call to Action:

• This week, practice self-compassion! When you have a setback, show yourself kindness. Remember, you are worthy of love and respect, no matter your size.

References and Resources:

• Brené Brown, "Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience" (pp. 132-142)
• Kristen Neff, "Self Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself"
• https://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/regional-economist/october-2011/worth-your-weight-reexamining-the-link-between-obesity-and-wages#:~:text=Economist%20John%20Cawley%20estimates%20that%20overweight%20and%20obese,percent%20less%2C%20respectively%2C%20than%20normal%20weight%20white%20women
• https://hbr.org/2019/08/research-on-many-issues-americans-biases-are-decreasing

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