Racial Identity and Body Image
WHAT DOES RACIAL IDENTITY HAVE TO DO WITH BODY IMAGE?
Our society has ingrained certain stereotypes and biases that often influence how we perceive ourselves and others. This is especially evident in matters of racial identity and body image, where white bodies tend to be perceived as ‘pure’, enjoying unearned privileges, while BBIPOC (Black, Brown, Indigenous People of Color) bodies are often treated as second class. This bias can take many forms, from systemic violence that makes it unsafe for BBIPOC to be embodied and access pleasure, to a lack of resources, less job opportunity, police violence, mass incarceration and medical bias.
Furthermore, there is a societal pressure on BBIPOC to assimilate to the dominant culture, yet they are often shamed by their culture of origin for doing so. Media representation also plays a crucial role in this, as BBIPOC bodies are overly represented as ‘criminal’ or ‘deviant’. All these factors can contribute to a distorted body image and a negative self-perception among BBIPOC individuals.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO FIND HEALING AND INCREASED SAFETY IN OUR BODIES?
Self-Acceptance
The road to healing and self-acceptance is a journey, but there are several steps that BBIPOC individuals can take to foster a healthier relationship with their bodies. One step is to connect with our ancestors and learn the ways they have survived these systems for generations. This not only provides a sense of connection and belonging but also offers valuable lessons on resilience and resistance.
Building Community
Building community with other BBIPOC folks who are invested in dismantling white supremacy can also offer much-needed support and empowerment. It’s beneficial to be around people who understand your experiences and can validate your feelings. This solidarity can be a powerful tool in healing and reclaiming your body image.
Embodiment
Another important aspect is to reclaim BBIPOC joy and pleasure through embodiment practices with BBIPOC practitioners. This can involve various activities that celebrate BBIPOC bodies and cultures, such as dance, yoga, or any form of body movement that encourages self-expression and self-love.
It’s also crucial to unpack the narrative in our collective unconscious that we are not ‘good enough’. This involves challenging and deconstructing the harmful stereotypes and biases that have been ingrained in us. Remember, you are enough just as you are, and your worth is not defined by societal standards.
Representation
Intentionally seeking out media with positive portrayals of BBIPOC folks can also help in reshaping our perceptions and promoting a healthier body image. Surrounding ourselves with positive and empowering representations can counteract the negative portrayals often seen in mainstream media.
Cultural connection
Reconnecting to the beauty and magic of our cultures and heritages can also nurture a sense of pride and self-love. It’s important to celebrate our roots and the rich diversity that they bring. This can be through learning more about our history, embracing our traditions, or engaging in cultural practices.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, we need to organize and work towards the abolition of the systems that fuel body hierarchies. This involves advocating for equality and justice, and challenging the structures that perpetuate these harmful biases. I hope you’ll join me in this fight to collective food and body liberation. Feel free to reach out if you’re interested in working with us through this lens!
At Eating Disorder OCD Therapy, we offer compassionate, relational, and individualized care, rooted in the belief that healing is not one-size-fits-all. Honoring client autonomy, collaboration, and anti-oppressive, neurodivergent-affirming practices, we walk alongside you as the expert in your own life. We provide therapy for Eating Disorders, OCD, Body Image, Trauma, Maternal Mental Health, and offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Group Therapy (globally), Recovery Coaching (globally), and Clinical Consultation and Supervision for clinicians. We are currently accepting new clients for in-person therapy in San Diego and virtual services in California, Washington, Utah, and Florida.
