Body Checking & Neutrality
Why We Body Check and What We Can Do Instead
Have you ever found yourself constantly checking your reflection just to see if something’s changed? That’s body checking. It can feel like second nature, especially when we're anxious or disconnected from ourselves. But often, it’s really about trying to find reassurance that we’re “okay” based on how our body looks.
But Our Bodies Aren’t Meant to Stay the Same
Bodies shift constantly especially during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, after eating, when we’re holding water, or when we’re tired or stressed. A bloated stomach after a meal isn’t a sign something’s wrong; it usually means your body is functioning just as it should.
And some of the times when we might feel the "lightest" are actually moments when our bodies are under-fueled or dehydrated. That’s not something to strive for that’s your body asking for care.
What Is Body Neutrality?
Body neutrality is the practice of stepping back from the constant evaluation of our appearance. It's about recognizing that your body doesn't need to be loved or praised all the time to deserve respect and kindness.
Just like with people in our lives, we can care deeply for our bodies even if we don’t feel positive about them every minute of the day. It’s okay to feel neutral.
When Emotions Take Over
Our emotions swing back and forth, like a pendulum. One moment we feel confident, the next we’re spiraling into comparison or self-doubt. When we tie our worth to what our body looks like, we end up riding that pendulum feeling great one day and awful the next.
Staying closer to the middle neutrality helps us make choices that actually support our long-term well-being, rather than reacting based on a passing emotion.
Sitting With Ourselves
It can feel uncomfortable to just be with ourselves no distractions, no mirrors, no need to “fix.” But that space of stillness is where real healing happens. Often what we call boredom or discomfort is actually resistance: a sign we’re not used to simply being.
But learning to be present with yourself, exactly as you are, is a powerful part of recovery.
You don’t need to love every part of your body to care for it.
You’re allowed to rest, nourish, and respect your body even on the harder days. You’re more than how you look. And your worth has never depended on your reflection.