Embracing Self-Love Amidst Body Shaming Online
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Chapter 1: The Unkindness of Strangers
In the vast realm of the internet, it’s unfortunate how cruel people can be. Recently, I shared a joyful moment with my 9-week-old daughter on social media, a picture that truly captures my happiness. To me, she is a treasure greater than any lottery win or luxury car.
However, I was taken aback by a comment from a random user, an ex-Olympian, who replied to my tweet with, "You need to eat meat. Skin and bones."
Normally, I brush off negativity. Most folks mean well or might leave a sarcastic remark after a tough day. It’s something I’ve grown accustomed to in my profession.
Yet, this particular comment struck a chord. For the first time, I felt the weight of what many women face daily. Just take a moment to scroll through the comments section of any video by a female creator on YouTube; you'll see an array of self-proclaimed experts critiquing their appearances.
Interestingly, the remark I received seems odd, considering that a decade ago, he might have had a point. But today, I’m in the best shape of my life, motivated by my daughter to push harder during workouts.
Since her arrival, I’ve transformed—my stomach is now flat, muscle has replaced fat, and gym staff often compliment my natural glow. Perhaps they’re just being kind, but it’s hard to ignore the positive changes I feel.
My motivation for fitness isn't about showcasing my physique; it stems from my journey through mental health challenges. Whenever I faced dark thoughts, a solid workout would lift my spirits. Now, my increased strength allows me to lift my daughter effortlessly and soothe her to sleep.
Section 1.1: The Oddity of Body Shaming
It’s curious that this body-shamer, a man critiquing another man, feels less common. "You need to eat meat," he exclaimed. I wonder how much he knows about me. Perhaps he’s aware I follow a vegan lifestyle, although I rarely discuss it. This is the first time someone has urged me to consume meat; usually, it’s the opposite, with strangers suggesting plant-based diets as if they’ve stumbled upon a revelation.
I won’t dive into the meat debate, as there’s still much to explore in that realm. However, it is widely recognized that many of us consume too much meat, which isn’t beneficial for our health. Since adopting a meat-free diet, I’ve never felt better—most of my health issues have vanished, and the fog in my brain has lifted.
I often tell people that while I can work for 16 hours straight without fatigue, it’s not due to my willpower—it's all about my diet. In the past, I struggled to stay awake during my commute home.
Regardless, it’s unwise to dictate to strangers what they should eat. Each individual must discover what works best for their body through experimentation and regular health check-ups.
Section 1.2: The Rise of Toxic Masculinity
I’ve noticed a troubling trend among men online. It began with figures like the Liver King and has spawned numerous imitators, promoting the idea that masculinity hinges on meat consumption. This body-shamer seems to belong to this misguided movement, frequently dispensing unsolicited dietary advice.
A few years back, I made the decision to quit drinking alcohol. When I shared this with colleagues and customers, I was met with puzzlement. Just like the erroneous belief that one must be muscular and consume meat, abstaining from alcohol has also become a source of ridicule.
It's baffling that the adverse effects of excessive alcohol consumption—like brain cell damage—aren’t enough to deter these so-called “manly warriors” who promote heavy drinking.
Chapter 2: Challenging Unrealistic Beauty Standards
There’s a thought I often ponder: Have Hollywood and social media set impossibly high standards for our bodies? The man who shamed me claims to be a former Olympian, spending his days telling others how to look and what to eat, holding us to an unattainable ideal.
Physical appearance is superficial. A person can look great yet be unkind—like my Olympic body-shamer. If mere appearance was the key to happiness, we would all be content and less concerned with our careers and livelihoods. Ultimately, looks are secondary; true beauty is found in one's character.
Section 2.1: A Path to Self-Acceptance
What does this all mean for you? Sometimes, it’s essential to embrace your own beauty. If you can find joy in your body, the external criticisms diminish in significance.
That’s my goal moving forward. Even if I am perceived as frail, I choose to disregard it. Ultimately, our physical forms are temporary, and in the end, it won’t matter.
Real beauty lies within.
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