[Applause] How does it feel to hear that your body was not designed for aesthetics. It doesn't care if you lose the last 10 lbs and keep it off. If you can fit back into your pre-preg jeans, or if you even feel confident in your body at all.To many of us, this might feel pretty disappointing because who hasn't wanted to change or tweak something about their body before. You know, I once knew a 12-year-old girl who thought the size of her body was such a problem that she would spend all of her time looking a ...

Body Image & Mental Health in Dance/Sports Industry - Body dissatisfaction is prevalent, with estimates suggesting 69-84% of women experience it [9] - The mindset to stay thin at any cost is common in the dance and sports industries [9] - Intuitive eating as teens is linked to a lower likelihood of depression and disordered eating as adults [16] - Optimal sleep is intertwined with athletic performance, brain health, and metabolic health [19] Strategies for Body Acceptance - Daily journaling can increase self-reflection, cognitive restructuring, and improve emotional regulation [11] - Journaling can lower stress levels, decrease anxiety, and boost self-esteem [12] - Intuitive eating involves channeling the body's natural cues for hunger and fullness without judgment [16] - Body rest and recovery are essential for improving motivation and metabolism [19] Practical Application - Journaling questions for body acceptance include: What makes your body special? What are positive coping strategies? How does your body support your goals? [15] - Intuitive eating helps individuals understand why they eat (emotional vs physical hunger) [17]