Filipino Beauty Bea Alonzo Shows How To Build Positive Body Image
In a series of Instagram posts Bea Alonzo revealed just why she doesn't share bikini images and ways she is learning how to build positive body image
If you are a fan of Bea Alonzo, you know that she is not one for flaunting bikini pictures or wearing the most revealing of outfits. She likes to keep a little mystery. And if she does don a bikini or two, you can count on her for making it look aesthetically appropriate. Her recent series of heartfelt Instagram posts revealed just why she does that and her journey to learning how to build a positive body image.
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View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
She shared that she has always been insecure about her body and that's why she chooses not to take close up shots.
"Maybe, I should get rid of all my insecurities so I can live more. I want to forget about how I hated myself for being 'fat' in other people’s eyes and just remember the things that I love about my body," Alonzo shared on an Instagram post.
Having been insecure for the longest time about her body, it was all intentional to cover up her perceived flaws.
But Alonzo has since realised that what matters most is having her self-esteem intact. She also shared that she now thinks that having a carefree approach when wearing something as revealing as a two-piece bikini is also necessary.
Alonzo says that she has matured in her perspective and shared her realisation to love her body unconditionally.
From a mix of acceptance to great disappointment and shame, most people experience conflicted feelings when viewing themselves in the mirror. Poor body image seems to be a common struggle in modern society, especially as we are all judged by our appearances.
But there are things you can do to help overcome toxic body shame and cultivate a sense of appreciation instead. And of course learn how to build positive body image.
1. Stay away from negative media
We are greatly influenced by what we read and watch, so be selective about the media influences you are surrounded by. What you see in the magazines and on social media is all filtered information and is not what it seems. Pictures are photoshopped to make you believe that the idea of 'perfect body' exists. But the fact that every body is beautiful, no matter how it looks.
2. Consciously surround yourself with positive media
Gravitate towards influences that can help build a positive self-image, including travel, wellness and business media. Speak to friends and family who believe in you and love you no matter your appearance. Those are the people you need to surround yourself with, people who do not judge you by your looks. But are more interested in you as a person.
3. Avoid malicious marketing
It is easy to feel inferior when you are in public spaces like shopping centers and department stores, as everything is designed to make you feel that way. Thus, you will become highly susceptible to negative influences. So while you cannot avoid going to the mall or such spaces, make sure you know in your heart that you are beautiful. Because you are.
4. Do not engage in conversations about appearance
Avoid conversations in which one demeans their own appearances, as this will inevitably make us feel self-conscious about ourselves. This doesn't mean that you should totally run away from it. But if somebody tries to body shame you, stand up for yourself and know that it is a form of bullying.
5. Meditate
Even just five or 10 minutes, meditation can greatly help overcome negative thought patterns. Meditation calms our nerves and centres our thoughts and its a great way of keeping away negative thoughts and energy. It also helps you bring positive thoughts together and understand things more maturely.
6. Eat well
Healthy eating and body respect is all about eating respectfully. It is more important to accept and stay mindful of the nutrients you need, which requires lots of good food and eliminating sugary and bad foods.
7. Not obsessively
Celebrate food and develop a healthy eating attitude, while avoiding binging. There is no need to restrict or punish yourself when indulging, as food deprivation is not the way to go. Enjoy yourself as you go along, but make sure to not overdo anything. And most importantly, don't forget to love yourself!
Also read: 11 Wonderful Ways That Team You How To Practice Self Love