So, What is Body Neutrality? How to make body neutrality a part of your life

At LükBook, we believe everyone has the right to show up in the world just as they are.

At its core body neutrality is the belief that you can exist in your body just as you are without having to think too much about it - whether that be positive or negative. 

Body neutrality is a little different from other body related movements, in fact it's kind of a "non-movement". It's a way of thinking and existing within your body as a vessel that carries you through life, harnessing all of the things that make you, you.

Body neutrality takes the focus away from your appearance and allows space for every other aspect in your life that makes you the multifaceted human being that you are. Your body is exactly what it is, in this very moment and you don't have to place any kind of negative or positive thoughts on it. Now, this doesn't mean you won't ever think about your body at all - it's about reframing how you think about it and understanding that your value is not held by your outward appearance. You are so much more than just a body.

Body neutrality may be helpful for those who struggle with body positivity and can be a more realistic approach. Body neutrality promotes self acceptance rather than striving for body positivity each day. 

So, how can you practice body neutrality in your daily life?

Practice gratitude - Take a moment each day to be thankful for your body in all of its forms. You can do this by taking a moment to thank your body for everything it has done for you that is external to how it looks. For example, "I thank my body for the rest it has given me to take on my day".

Pay attention to your inner dialogue - It is important to remember that thoughts are just thoughts and they do not have to influence your decisions. Pay attention to the way you think about yourself and be mindful of the thoughts that pop in to your head. If you catch yourself speaking negatively about your appearance you can try replacing that thought with something more factual about the function of your body instead. For example "My body enables me to experience laughter".

Be gentle with yourself - Remember body neutrality will look different for everyone and everyone's relationship with their body is different and that is okay. When you look into the mirror, instead of thinking about how a body part looks, consider what it does for you instead.

You have the right to come as you are in this life and are worthy of respect without your outward appearance playing any role in that.