LOVE YOUR BODY DAY: A DAY FOR SELF-ACCEPTANCE​

On October 15, the world celebrates Love Your Body Day. Launched in 1998 by the US National Organization for Women, the Love Your Body Day initiative challenges unrealistic beauty standards in society and promotes a positive body image.

The purpose of this day is to encourage people not only to “love themselves in the mirror” but also to appreciate their bodies for their strength, uniqueness, and ability to live, move, and feel. The initiative aims to change public perception of the human body by shifting the focus from “fixing” perceived flaws to embracing acceptance.

In our daily work at the Charity Exchange 'DobroDiy,' we face psychological challenges related to clients' non-acceptance of changes to their appearance caused by illnesses and injuries. Even in an inclusive environment, children compare themselves to their peers, and this issue worsens during adolescence.

Mothers also often struggle to accept changes to their bodies after giving birth, and this rejection is one of the most common causes of postpartum depression. As part of complex rehabilitation, children and teenagers with serious diagnoses work through these issues with psychologists. However, accepting oneself remains an individual challenge.

Everyone has the right to feel comfortable in their own body without conforming to societal norms. Psychologists say that self-love doesn’t just happen: it must be nurtured and developed continuously. In particular, achieving harmony with your own body is helped by:

• refusing to compare yourself to others;
• celebrating personal victories, even the smallest ones;
• patience and perseverance in pursuing a realistic goal;
• connecting with those who love and support you.

Today is another chance to reflect on and analyze the quality and quantity of care you give to your body. We wish everyone well on their journey toward self-harmony, and we will continue to support those who need treatment and rehabilitation as they begin their path of recovery and growth!