Introduction:
Our circle of friends is often a safe place to feel included and accepted. We can laugh. We can cry. We can roll our eyes with our friends. What happens when our friendly conversations turn into body bashing–or what I call negative body talk? Ever heard (or made) comments like: “I hate how my thighs touch!” “OMG, I can’t believe how many calories I just ate.” “Boy, she sure gained weight over the summer.” Negative body talk can effect how we feel about ourselves, how we feel about our bodies. If that isn’t enough, these conversations can lead to comparison and competition with our friends! Not fun. Negative body talk happens a lot when you’re a teenager. As a teen, your body is going through a lot of changes. It can sometimes feel uncomfortable to be in your own skin. And to make matters worse, friends’ bodies are changing at different rates!
Sometimes we might find ourselves getting caught up in negative body talk just to fit in the group. Other times we talk negatively about our bodies at home with our mothers and sisters. Let’s look at some ways we can be empowered and enjoy supportive and healthy body conversations rather than insulting and competitive ones that zap our zest.
Body Talk with Friends Exercise 1, Friendship Circles
Body Talk with Friends Exercise 2, Clearing Away the Cloud
Body Talk with Friends Exercise 3, Being Bold
Body Talk with Friends Exercise 4, The Ultimate Resolution