Body Fascism

Appearance has always been an effective means of bullying, because it's obvious that somebody differs in their skin colour, wears glasses, is disabled, overweight, and so on, and body fascism is a popular way to exert control. "They" decide what's beautiful/attractive/sexy/powerful/acceptable, we have to conform or face ridicule, humiliation and rejection. Is it any wonder that anxiety and eating disorders are on the increase in young people, who are likely to be much more susceptible because of their desire to belong?

I appreciate that being overweight may bring with it health concerns, but so do age, sport, lack of exercise, fad diets, motorbikes, and many, many other activities/lifestyle choices/body types.

The obese are easy targets, they are even more obvious than those who smoke or drink heavily, so we can readily point the finger at them and blame them for society's problems, and if we're really creative, we can account for almost everything in terms of people being fat - Brexit, the economy, world poverty, war. But how many of those advising us to lose weight (politicians, scientists, doctors, nurses, etc.) are themselves overweight? If they know it's so unhealthy and costs the NHS so much, and if losing weight is just about living healthily, how come they haven't done anything about it? It's a simple enough equation - fewer calories in, more out.

This legitimised bullying does not work, blaming or criticising those who are already acutely aware of their appearance. Looking in the mirror, they know they do not conform to the desired standards, they may be revolted by their reflection. The response? Eat more. If they never learn to love and accept themselves as they are, if they never find self-compassion, the likelihood is that they will continue to abuse themselves through inappropriate eating. It's an extremely complex issue, but we can help by not making people feel so worthless that they believe there is no other way because they're unloveable. If we're happy in our body, no matter its size, we will undoubtedly be healthier human beings in every way

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6I1D3Tcqpc.