Fitness and Self Esteem
Is fitness related to self esteem? Some would say yes they are, others would say no. I say it depends on the person. For a lot of people, if they were in better shape, and they looked a little more like the models they see, or if they at least ate a healthy diet full of all the good nutrients, they would live a happier more fulfilling life.
A lot of people who are struggling with their weight and fitness levels, alot of overweight people, obese people, and extremely thin people tend to suffer some kind of lower sense of worth. They find themselves wishing they were a little “healthier.” They believe that if they were thinner, or had a little more muscle mass, they would be happier with themselves.
We hear it all the time, a lot of people are insecure about their fitness levels, and the media with their constant advertising of fitness while well meaning, can cause people to feel a little guilty and shamed that they aren’t at the level that they see on the TV.
Society places a lot of high value on appearances. If you have a fit body, a chiseled face and great height, you are more likely to have a happier more fulfilling life, especially if you have a ton of physical talents like amazing martial arts acrobatics.
People who aren’t “fit” tend to be more vulnerable to depression, social anxiety, plus other disorders. They have to deal with a lot of stares or in some cases, snickers from various people, especially if they are struggling with obesity. As a result they are shamed and they get to the point where they feel they can’t accept themselves unless they were “in shape.”
One of the unfortunate results of that is some people resort to extreme behavoir when it comes to dieting. A lot of people do things like crash dieting and self starving. Even if it may work, it is not safe because there are a lot of side effects that you put yourself at risk to.
People who are in shape and living an active lifestyle tend to be more confident and happy with their overall life. They can be arrogant, though. Which is probably due to all the energy they get from a healthier lifestyle.
The first step to a “higher” level of well being is adjusting your diet. Nutrition plays a large part. I probably wouldn’t recommend dropping the luxury foods completely, you might want to rather moderate them. Lower the luxury food intake and eat more of the healthier foods, preferably fruits and vegetables. Minimize the fried food intake because the oils are said to contribute to fat. After a few days, you’ll notice that the healthier foods have a rather medicinal effect on your body. Even if you don’t lose a lot of weight or get fit, you’ll find yourself with more energy and greater sense of self worth. You’ll be more secure in yourself.
