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Body-image flexibility can help you stay active despite negative body image.

Focusing on body function can reduce shame and support lasting movement.

Accepting discomfort makes it easier to choose movements that matter to you

Moving despite embarrassment builds freedom from body-image concerns.

Body positivity has a new rallying cry: Just wear the shorts. Wear the bathing suit. Stop waiting for your body to be different before you start living.

It’s a powerful message, but what if you’re embarrassed for your body to be seen while it moves, no matter what you’re wearing? If you’ve ever skipped a workout, avoided the pool, or stayed on the sidelines because you felt too self-conscious about how your body looks in motion, you’re not alone. Physical activity can make us feel especially exposed and vulnerable to judgment.

This brings us to a common barrier, articulated by a reader: “When I move it makes me feel fat. My body jiggles. I’m ashamed of my body and don’t want to be reminded of it.”

Let’s break this down.

Jiggle It Just a Little Bit (or a Lot)

Body-image flexibility is your ability to embrace the present moment, including a negative body image, while pursuing your life values. Even if you have negative body image thoughts and feelings, you can choose to move anyway.

With body-image flexibility,........

© Psychology Today