Recent studies in Australia have shown that a mere 20% of its women feel confident and happy with their bodies. However, as many as 89% allowed poor body image to have an impact on their life in negative ways at times, including cancelling social engagements, job interviews or other plans. Although we have no figures for South Africa, it seems possible that women in this country feel the same way.
“If we are at war with our body, we suffer a deep sense of alienation and disconnection from ourselves and others,” says soul-centred psychotherapy and eating psychology specialist Jodie Gale. “This then has an impact on all relationships and areas of our lives.”
Body confidence can be elusive and difficult for many people because
