Learning to Embrace Your Body
By Ms. Ariel Nicole
For the past 8 months, I have watched as my body has changed in numerous ways, which has brought new feelings and emotions about my body and a change in body image. Changes can occur as we get older, become more sedentary or more active, experience pregnancy and postpartum, and gain or lose some of our abilities. The changes we experience can influence how we see our bodies. How a person feels about their body can also be influenced by social media, magazines, television, photo shop and other sources. There has been recent research about the relationship between body image and sexuality.
In a recent survey, if a participant perceived herself as less attractive, was more likely to report a decline in sexual desire or activity. Some experts believe there is a direct
connection between body image and sexual feelings. Some experts even believe that negative body image can be the number one cause for a reduced feeling of positive sexuality. Body image isn’t just what we see in the mirror, it is how you think about yourself
physically, how you feel about yourself mentally, and how you think others see you.
AFIYA Magazine looks to enhance the awareness and knowledge of wellness issues important to African-American women while providing a platform for us to grow, expand, and develop within our personal and professional lives.