Being self-conscious is part of the human condition in the 21st century. We know the facts: the media is oversexed and stresses the importance of a thin, often gaunt physique and, not surprisingly, there are a high number of eating disorders on college campuses among both women and men.
Every year we tell ourselves that we are going to fit into a specific pant size or get a six pack before March vacation. Let’s face it – we are own worst nightmares. We get crazy about our appearances, create unnecessary stress and even make ourselves incredibly unhealthy in the process. Though I’m not a medical doctor, a therapist or a personal trainer, I am a female college student who believes she has some common sense.
Health classes, parents, doctors and even celebrities tell the public that the secret to weight loss is to eat correctly and exercise. But, who are we kidding?
The secrets to a long, happy life are exercise and healthy eating habits. Blaming or crediting your metabolism for your appearance is no excuse to avoid the gym or continue to eat overly-processed foods. Furthermore, blaming your busy schedule is no reason to not be active.
Working out at the gym does not have to be emotionally painful. Do not let other people intimidate you at the gym. Go with a friend, bring your iPod or read a magazine.
If the gym is not your thing, walk around our beautiful campus! Just get out of the dorm room, stop wallowing and be happy that you are trying to feel better about yourself!
Exercise is only part of maintaining a vigorous lifestyle – food is another. French fries, frozen yogurt, mountains of baked goods and pizza are commodities in the cafeteria and the Stag. Take-out menus are plastered on our bulletin boards and alcoholic beverages flow freely throughout campus.
I’m not lecturing you on what you should put in your body. Just survey your options before just settling. Eating should not be a guilt trip, nor should it involve painstaking calorie counting; just make wise choices. We are, after all, adults.
Physical activity and maintaining a balanced diet should satisfy the physical aspect of overcoming body issues. What about the emotional and mental?
Shopping for clothes should not be a miserable experience. Dressing room mirrors should not be avoided. If you like a pair of pants, a t-shirt or a sweater, shop for fit, not for size. Although easier said than done, getting hung up on a size can cause a relapse on a course to a healthier lifestyle.
Independence can be brutal, but it can also produce great things. Self-consciousness is ingrained in our society, but whether you believe it or not, you are not constantly being judged. Who is to say that you are overweight, too skinny, or not smart enough?
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, a woman highly scrutinized for her sexuality, appearance and role as a First Lady, said it best: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Just imagine all the things we could accomplish if we stopped thinking of ourselves, and stopped commenting on others and truly started to make a difference in the world!
Leave a Reply