How to Manifest a Positive Body Image

Manifesting a healthy body image is a lot like being “delulu.” You’re faking it until you believe that you love your body the way it is. In this case, you’re not dreaming up your ideal figure but, instead, you're projecting a version of yourself that’s at peace with the body you have. If you’re wondering how to manifest this into reality, read on.

Through the years, beauty standards have made it difficult for women to feel good about their bodies. If you have a remotely healthy body image and feel somewhat confident in your appearance, consider yourself lucky. For many, it fluctuates, disappearing just in time for the most crucial moments of their lives.

In this case, manifesting can work since the practice involves, as self-help author Gabby Berstein describes, “cultivating the experience of what it is you want to feel” and then living and believing that experience. In many ways, this is also how body image – positive or negative – perpetuates. Manifesting just adds a bit more intention to what you may already be doing.

Your body image is a collection of thoughts and feelings you have about your body, and it is influenced by internal and external factors. According to the National Eating Disorders Collaboration, it is associated with high self-esteem, self-acceptance, and practicing healthy behaviors. There are four aspects:

Perceptual body image– how you see your body, not necessarily the way you look.

Affective body image– how you feel about your body shape, weight, and body parts.

Cognitive body image – how and how much you think about your body.

Behavioral body image – the behaviors you engage in because of the above.

Since manifesting involves visualizing your goals and creating space for them, doing the same for a healthy body image means shifting to more positive behaviors, no matter how difficult (or small). Here’s how.

Making the shift from “what I want to look like” to “how I want to feel” is the first step. Creating a list can ease you into this mindset. Instead of hoping to change your appearance, even if it is for the better, list down how you want to feel about your body. “I like my strong thighs,” “I don’t feel embarrassed about bloating,” or “I am happy that I can still move this way” are some examples.

Holding on to unrealistic goals is not determination – it’s toxic. You’re putting your well-being at risk by thinking you will one day fit into a size 2 again, especially if you’re not putting the work in. Doing this can slowly chip away at your self-esteem. So, start wearing clothes that flatter your body type so you can slowly learn to appreciate it. Remember, your appearance is not the result of your triumphs or failures. Sometimes, it just is.

Do you feel defeated or sad when you stand on a scale? Reminding yourself that these numbers do not represent the state of your health or happiness can be good for your cognitive body image. According to Nutrition Journal, focusing on weight is not only “ineffective at producing thinner, healthier bodies,” but it also has harmful consequences like food and body preoccupation. Realizing the reality behind the kilograms is essential to achieving your manifestation goals.

Don’t take your beauty routines and personal hygiene for granted. To get more confidence from self-care, use products that are specific to your needs. Nourish your body with Vaseline Gluta-Hya Serum Burst Lotion Overnight Radiance Repair, a clinically proven formula that plumps skin overnight.

For your hair, try Sunsilk Damage Reconstruction Shampoo, which revives brittle, damaged locks. Finally, don’t forget to brush your teeth with closeup Gel Toothpaste with Antibacterial Zinc Red Hot, which removes 99.9% of bacteria and keeps your breath fresh with regular use.

Even if you don’t like your body 100%, surely there are parts you think are nice. Identify these areas and make a conscious effort to flaunt them – if not for others, for yourself. For example, if you like your muscular legs (Calves are back in style, didn’t you hear?), wear more shorts and skirts that show off their shape. This conditions your behavioral body image to expand in a more positive direction.

Be critical of influencers and brands touting exercises and slimming products. Pay attention to how they make you feel, and if they make you feel uncomfortable about your body, push back. Send them a message or write them an email. Being proactive can build your confidence and grow your self-love.

On the other hand, try to show appreciation for women who share their body image struggles. Applaud them publicly or cheer for them quietly – what matters is you’re shifting your own perspective bit by bit. Recognizing yourself in others can help normalize your own challenges and remind you that you’re not alone.

If you’re asking how to manifest a positive body image, start small. Try the steps above and see where it goes. It may seem silly at first, but these behavioral adjustments are your ticket to feeling good about your body, or at least not feeling too bad about it.