One of the most counterintuitive truths about body image: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Body Image Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of body image
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking body image is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging body image without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing body image to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for body image while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Body Image
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting body image, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Body Image
Many people find that when they stop fighting body image and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of body image is partly the struggle against it.