Growing up overweight in a culture that openly comments on people’s weight can be a challenging experience. In this blog post, I want to share my personal journey of self-discovery, body image struggles, and ultimately finding a place of happiness and health. My story is a testament to the importance of self-love and the impact of cultural influences on body perception.
The Weight of Self-Consciousness: As a young girl, I felt the weight of self-consciousness bearing down on me. In Ethiopian culture, adults often make comments about others’ weight without realizing the impact it can have. I found myself standing out, and the lack of representation of girls who looked like me only heightened my insecurities.
Turning Point in High School: High school marked a turning point in my life. Joining the field hockey team, a running sport, inadvertently led to a significant weight loss. Initially pleased with the changes, I took matters into my own hands and adopted unhealthy eating habits, surviving mainly on water. The pressure to conform to societal expectations and fit a certain mold had taken a toll on my mental and physical well-being.
Realization and Course Correction: Soon, I began to recognize the danger of the path I was on. Hiding my struggles from my family added another layer of stress, and I realized that true happiness could not be found through deprivation. It was time for a course correction. I started eating regularly and adopted a healthier approach to nutrition. This journey taught me the importance of nourishing my body and mind in a sustainable way.
Ongoing Struggles and Self-Image: While I have come a long way, the journey to self-love is ongoing. Struggling with self-image is a battle many face, but I am now at a place where I am not afraid to go out with friends or enjoy time at the pool. Accepting myself, flaws and all, has become a priority, and I continue to work on building a positive relationship with my body.
Embracing Happiness and Health: Today, I am proud to say that I am happy and healthy. I have learned to celebrate my body for what it is, acknowledging that beauty comes in various shapes and sizes. The cultural influences that once contributed to my self-consciousness are now viewed through a lens of understanding, and I strive to promote body positivity within my community.
My journey from self-consciousness to self-love has been filled with challenges and triumphs. It is essential to recognize the impact of cultural norms on body image and actively work towards changing unhealthy perceptions. By sharing our stories and fostering a culture of acceptance, we can create a world where everyone feels confident and valued in their unique bodies.