- LOVE JOY P.

IGNACIO -

THE PHYSICAL SELF

UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

The concept of the physical self refers to how
individuals perceive their own bodies and how
these perceptions influence their self-identity,
self-esteem, and overall well-being. This
perspective emphasizes the interplay between
the body and the self, considering how physical
appearance and health can shape personal
identity and social interactions.
The impact of
Culture on Body
Image and
Self-Esteem
 CULTURAL STANDARDS OF BEAUTY
Different cultures have distinct ideals of
beauty, which can significantly influence how
individuals perceive their own bodies. For
example, Western societies often emphasize
slimness and youth, while other cultures may
celebrate different body shapes or attributes
(e.g., fuller figures in some African or
Caribbean cultures)
 MEDIA PRESENTATION

The portrayal of beauty in media, including

advertisements, television, and social media,
plays a crucial role in shaping body image.
Exposure to unrealistic body standards can
lead to body dissatisfaction, particularly
among young people.
 SOCIAL COMPARISON

People often compare themselves to others

based on appearance, which can lead to
feelings of inferiority or superiority. This
social comparison is often exacerbated by
social media, where curated images can
create unrealistic expectations.
 SOCIAL COMPARISON

This can affect self-esteem— those who

perceive themselves as falling short of
societal ideals may experience anxiety,
depression, or disordered eating
behaviors
THE IMPORTANCE
OF BEAUTY
 SOCIAL ACCEPTANCE
In many cultures, physical attractiveness is
associated with social advantages, including
increased acceptance, popularity, and
opportunities in personal and professional
realms. This phenomenon, sometimes referred
to as the "halo effect," suggests that
attractive individuals are often perceived
more favorably.
 SELF-EXPRESSION
• The way individuals present their physical selves
can serve as a form of self- expression. Choices
related to fashion, grooming, and body art (like
tattoos and piercings) can communicate identity,
values, and personal style.
• This self-expression can empower individuals,
helping them feel more authentic and confident.
 PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING
• Positive body image— appreciating and accepting one's
physical self— can lead to improved mental health.
Individuals who feel good about their bodies are generally
more confident and have higher self-esteem.

• Engaging in self-care practices, such as regular exercise,

healthy eating, and mindfulness, can enhance one's physical
self and contribute to a positive self-image.
 STRATEGIES FOR A POSITIVE BODY IMAGE: RESISTING
UNREALISTIC BEAUTY STANDARDS
Developing a positive body image is a journey
of self-discovery and acceptance, requiring a
conscious effort to challenge unrealistic
beauty standards and cultivate a healthy
relationship with your body. Here are some
strategies individuals can use to navigate this
journey.
 EMBRACE SELF-ACCEPTANCE AND CHALLENGE NEGATIVE
THOUGHTS
Recognize the Challenge Focus on
Influence of Negative Strenghrs and
culture Self-Talk Function
Be mindful of
Understand that negative thoughts Appreciate your
beauty standards are about your body and body's abilities and
often culturally actively challenge what it allows you to
constructed and can them. Replace do. Celebrate your
be unrealistic and self-criticism with strengths and talents,
harmful. self-compassion and rather than solely
positive focusing on physical
affirmations. appearance.
 CURATE A POSTIVE ENVIRONMENT

Media Literacy Social Media Surround Yourself

Detox with Positivity
Limit exposure to
Be critical of media Spend time with people
social media platforms
messages and images. who appreciate you
that promote
Recognize that many for who you are, not
unrealistic beauty
images are digitally just your appearance.
standards. Unfollow
altered and don't Seek out supportive
accounts that make
reflect reality. relationships that
you feel inadequate
and follow those that encourage
promote body self-acceptance.
positivity.
 FOCUS ON HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Healthy Habits Nourish Your Mindfulness and

Body Self-Care
Engage in physical Eat a balanced diet Practice mindfulness
activities you enjoy, that provides your techniques like
prioritizing health body with the meditation and yoga
and well- being nutrients it needs, to reduce stress and
rather than solely rather than promote
focusing on changing following self-compassion.
your body. restrictive diets. Engage in activities
that make you feel
good about your body.
 SEEK PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT

Support Groups
Theraphy

If negative body Connect with others facing

image is significantly similar challenges through
impacting your life, support groups or online
consider seeking help communities. Sharing
from a mental health experiences and gaining
professional support can be invaluable
specializing
 CELEBRATE DIVERSITY AND EMBRACE UNIQUENESS

Challenge Focus on Inner

Stereotypes Beauty
Recognize that beauty
comes in all shapes, sizes, Remember that true beauty
and colors. Embrace the goes beyond physical
diversity of human bodies appearance. Cultivate inner
and celebrate qualities like kindness,
individuality. compassion, and intelligence.