In a society that’s obsessed with body image, one’s self-confidence can depend a lot on their shape and size. Even with movements now actively and bravely promoting body positivity, it still doesn’t stop many people, especially women, from feeling insecure if they don’t possess the ideal physique.
The fact that being older makes getting in shape more difficult isn’t helping many individuals with their self-confidence issues, too. Muffin tops, cellulite, and excessive body fat in a mature body may drop an older adult’s self-confidence, causing them to get stressed more frequently and make them look older than they actually are.
To restore their lost confidence and youthfulness, they try various solutions like effective body contouring procedures in Utah or any other state and swear by the results. Coupled with a healthy diet and exercise, the firmness and toned sculpture of their bodies become truly enviable.
Being in Shape Gives You a Better Body Image
Loving the body that we’re in, regardless of its shape and size, is good for our self-esteem, but that doesn’t mean we should abandon the idea of working out. Regular exercise that’s mainly focused on aerobics is found to have positive effects on self-esteem, as it releases happy hormones called beta-endorphins, and lowers stress hormones called cortisol. Hence, by doing moderate aerobic workouts regularly, we naturally feel happier, which gets intensified with our improved bodies and appearance.
Exercise Aids in Reducing the Long-term Effects of Depression
Adults are commonly stuck to a certain routine, driving many to depression. A study published in the International Journal of Sport Psychology in 2000 had revealed that regular exercise is effective in restoring the self-confidence of adults in a routine-driven lifestyle. Considering that, imagine if you work out consistently until your retirement age. Your radiance will be maintained as if you didn’t work a day in your life.
Certain Exercises Stimulate Feelings of Being Empowered
Yoga, tai chi, qi gong, and meditation, are also forms of exercise that aid in boosting mental health, elevating self-confidence and stimulating feelings of being empowered. Research suggests that yoga, in particular, may stimulate the vagus nerve, a cranial nerve that has functions involving our stamina, well-being, and self-esteem. Moreover, yoga aids in regulating blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and insulin resistance, and reduces stress-induced hunger, leading to weight loss and being in shape.
Meditation, meanwhile, stimulates the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is in charge of our happiness. It improves coordination, memory, and IQ. As a result, we feel better about ourselves, making us more confident in social situations.
Confidence Goes Beyond Superficial Matters
When we’re confident, it’s not just because we have shapely and fit bodies. Our confidence is also driven by internal factors such as positive thinking, our belief in our abilities, and self-assurance. We adopt a mindset that believes that we can be good at something and overcome failures. We celebrate our small victories, which help in keeping track of our goals. It isn’t being cocky unless you’re belittling your peers who aren’t as confident as you.
It’s crucial to keep in mind though being in shape significantly contributes to self-confidence, it shouldn’t be obsessed on, and we must not dwell on a negative body image if we’re not in the physique that we desire. It’s the kindness of our hearts that matter more. At the end of the day, it’s what people will love us for. As long as you have healthy relationships and a positive self-image, your self-confidence will soar and being in shape is just a bonus.
