I think everyone struggles at one time or another with body image. There is always some flaw that you wish were not there. I want thinner thighs and a tiny waist. You can probably put a few flaws on your list, too.
“Many people with rheumatoid arthritis experience swelling, changes in the shape of their hands and feet, weight gain or loss, and difficulty walking. These body changes can affect how a person views herself and her body,” says Helen L. Coons, PhD, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.
In some cases, you may be able to improve your appearance, or you may have to accept what you can’t change.
Start Exercising
A gym membership has many benefits. Everyone needs exercise, but it’s especially important for people with arthritis. Exercise increases strength and makes moving easier. Exercise reduces joint pain and helps fight tiredness.
I like to lift weights because it is convenient to do from home, and it builds muscle, which lets you eat more calories.
Can’t afford a gym membership? Exercise by yourself or with a friend. Walk the family pet. Ride a stationary bike. The possibilities are endless.
Stand in Front of a Mirror
It’s easy to list what you don’t like about your body, but what are some of the things that you do like? Do you like how your legs look in a pair of shorts? Do you like how long your fingers are and how some nail polish shows them off?
Spend some time in front of a mirror and make a list of the things that you like about your body.
Recognize What You Have Control Over
Rather than dwelling on what you don’t like about your body image, recognize that you are in control and can make any changes that you want.
Do you bite your fingernails? I did, and my nails always looked ragged. If your hair looks dirty and straggly, try cutting it shorter in a new style and washing it more often.
I like to research how arthritis affects the body. Would physical therapy help your joints? How can you elevate your joints to control swelling? For pain when you first get out of bed, try some range-of-motion exercises.
Keep choosing to accept, over and over. Consider what might help you with acceptance at the moment. A deep breath, shifting your posture, taking a walk.
Steer Clear of Negative People
This can be a tough one, especially if they are family or co-workers. Steer clear of negative people who put themselves down. If these people are putting themselves down, it won’t be long until they start talking negatively about you.
Hang out with positive people who are goal-oriented and happy with their body image.
Be Kind to Yourself
You may put up with a lot of stress both at home and at work. This is where pampering yourself can make you view things in a whole different light.
Schedule a spa day and get the whole package of services. This includes a massage, a facial, a manicure, and a pedicure. If you are watching your pennies, do the one you like the best.
Buy New Clothes That Fit
I foolishly thought that wearing baggy clothes would make me look smaller. I started getting compliments when I bought the right size clothing.
No matter your size, you always look and feel your best when you wear clothes that fit. Don’t wait until you have reached your goal weight. Buy something nice and wear it proudly.
Practice Smiling
I remember being at the grocery store, and my day went from bad to worse. As I approached the door, I met an elderly lady who looked so sad. I wondered if smiling might help both of us feel better.
Her mood changed immediately, and she smiled back.
A smile is contagious, and when you smile, you’ll notice a lot of people smiling back at you. When you look in the mirror and like what you see, it always boosts your self-confidence.
Summary
Try these seven steps to a positive body image, and see which ones work for you.
How we feel on the outside affects how we feel on the inside. If it helps your arthritis symptoms, that is a bonus.
