Body shaming and fat shaming is the same as bullying, whether it be in person, or online. It is the act or practice of negatively judging someone based on their physical appearance.
The terms body shaming and body positivity aren’t a far-from-our-bed show anymore. Some of our very own Pakistani female celebrities spoke about this topic and highlighted the issue.
You Might Not Always Be Aware That You Are Doing It!
We might think we do not indulge in any form of body shaming but actually, the behaviour might manifest itself in ways we might not even be conscious of. It is another thing to make light of it with a friend, sister or brother whom (you feel) is okay with it, but quite another to do it in ways we might be unaware of.
1. You Talk About Your Body Weight
Oh, I need to get rid of that belly fat and NOW, it looks gross!
Ummm maybe, but you can keep the conversation inside your head?
We all make this statement without worrying about the outcome it would have on the other person. Often thin people complain about their belly fat, which is hardly visible, but doing this in front of a person with a heavier weight is not a good idea.
2. Give Unwanted Food & Exercise Advice
You know you really need to cut down on your portion size & being regular at the gym won’t hurt either!
Perhaps You mean well, but perhaps … this might put your friend in a depressive cycle for the day?
Doing this makes the other person doubt themselves. It also means that they are not really taking care of their body & need to do more.
3. Comments on food choices
Ooh, not a good idea. Dessert will put me out by a week, more time at the gym tomorrow?
Yes, But keep it to yourself will you? especially if your companion is just taking a bite out of his/her dessert?
Making statements like “I shouldn’t be eating this” can make the other person doubt their food choices also. Even if you are commenting about your body, it can make others uncomfortable.
4. Fat shaming others
Oh wow, SHE’S put on a ton over the break! Wonder how she feels about it?
And why would you want to talk about someone else’s body, even if it’s not your friend standing next to you?
This is not accidental, but when you fat shame others, chances are that your friend standing next to you has the same concern. By doing this, you are body shaming your friend too. Though it may not be directed at them, it is still hurtful.
5. Wardrobe choices
Hmm, do you want to change that top maybe? The cut is looking a bit off on you!
Might not be your cup of tea, but she/he obviously likes it. Try to reserve your opinion.
Your clothing choice might be the best, but commenting on others’ styling sense is never welcomed. Everyone has the right to choose what they want to wear & it should be left to them.
Spotting on someone’s body can be very daunting for the person in question. Such remarks can even deteriorate one’s mental health and may lead to depression. That is why we need to do our best to not hurt anyone’s sentiments in any case!
Live and let live folks, there are other ways to set an example without hurting someone’s sentiments. Perhaps, just be the best you can be and others might feel inspired to follow?
