Our body image, which includes our perception of ourselves and our own body and the manner

in which
we feel about our body, is influenced by a variety of factors. Many aspects contribute to body image,
including the environment in which we are immersed in as well as our biological makeup and genetic
predisposition.

Understanding how each of these areas impact how we feel about our body is important to
understanding how we can create and build a positive body image.

Culture Is Just One Factor

Teamwork. Hands shaking While culture alone is not responsible for a poor or negative body image, the
influence and potential in which it can impact how a person feels about themselves and their body are
substantial. Being aware of your surroundings and understanding how culture and traditions may affect
and impact how you think and feel about your body can be helpful, especially in a conscious effort to
build a positive body image and increase self-esteem.

Understanding each of the components that contribute to your body image is an important step
towards making a difference in how you see and feel about yourself

Cultural Traditions Can Help or Hurt

The culture in which we are surrounded by has a significant impact on how we feel about ourselves and
the manner in which we think about our body. Many cultural traditions also contribute to body image
and can influence either negative or positive body image and self-esteem.

Depending on the culture and overall emphasis of traditions involved, a person may find their
surroundings either conducive to or resistant to the building of a healthy body image and self-esteem.

The Impact of Western Culture

The Western culture in general, for example, is one that tends to hyper-focus on dieting and body
appearance. Digitally retouched photos are the norm in which our society is saturated in, and this
mentality can negatively influence an individual’s body image.

Other cultures that celebrate and uphold a person’s body and whose traditions uphold what a person is
capable of doing rather than their appearance may more effectively support the building of a positive
body image.