As I step into the gym locker room, my friend remarks, “You look so slim!” This comment often follows a period of illness or injury, and while it’s intended as a compliment, I’ve come to see it differently.
Typically, my body resembles a stick figure with a hint of curves. When I engage in workouts, my physique develops slight muscle definition, yet losing even a bit of that muscle can lead to perceptions of being “slim.” Society seems to equate slimness with positivity, but I don’t share that viewpoint.
My motivation for exercising is rooted in battling depression for nearly two decades. The endorphins I gain from physical activity significantly enhance my mood and help stabilize my mental health.
However, being labeled as “slim” doesn’t truly reflect a compliment. It’s merely a different form of judgment regarding one’s body. Consider this: Would it be appropriate to say, “You look like you’ve gained weight,” or “It’s taking you a while to return to your pre-baby shape?” Absolutely not.
Comments about appearance only perpetuate harmful societal standards, making individuals feel pressured about their bodies. This is particularly concerning when we consider that girls often receive more praise for their looks than for their intelligence or creativity. While we might be more aware of this issue now than in previous generations, many women still grapple with body acceptance.
Even those who are mindful of their language can inadvertently reinforce these unrealistic standards. For every person inspired by the fitness and diet trends proliferating on social media, there’s another woman facing health challenges or simply choosing not to obsess over her appearance and its impact on her worth.
Media headlines still shout about celebrities flaunting their post-baby bodies, but let’s be clear: a woman has a body. She had a baby. The focus should remain on health, not appearance.
Recently, I overheard a young girl in my daughter’s after-school art club boast about her slim tummy. I approached and playfully stuck out my belly, saying, “What matters is that our bodies work well. Imagine if they didn’t—how messy would that be?” This led to laughter, as the girls shared funny thoughts about bodily functions.
There’s no single right way to have a body. By commenting on body shape, even with good intentions, we only reinforce judgments. So please, refrain from calling me slim. My goal is to prioritize health and happiness, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
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Summary:
The notion of slimness as a compliment perpetuates harmful societal standards and body judgments. Personal motivations for fitness should focus on health and well-being rather than appearance. Encouraging discussions about body acceptance is crucial, especially in front of younger generations.