‘Wives used to come and say, now I like my fat husband’: Ram Kapoor speaks on acceptance and weight loss transformation | Life-style News

Kapoor also opened up about the challenges he faced when he decided to transform his body. There were directors who said his “branding is too strong” when he told them that he was going to transform himself, he revealed.

So, how does societal validation or criticism based on body image impact a person’s self-esteem?

Neha Parashar, senior psychologist at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Positive societal validation, like compliments or acceptance based on physical traits, can temporarily boost self-esteem. When society criticises someone for their appearance — whether it’s weight, height, or other physical attributes — it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and even self-loathing.”

Conversely, she adds that constant validation for being overweight or embracing a particular body type can also discourage individuals from seeking healthier lifestyle changes, as they may fear losing societal approval. Striking a balance is crucial, as self-worth should not depend entirely on external opinions but rather on one’s own intrinsic values and health priorities.

Psychological effects of being celebrated for traits that may not align with one’s personal health goals

Being celebrated for traits that contradict personal health aspirations can create an internal conflict known as ‘cognitive dissonance.’ This occurs when a person’s external validation clashes with their inner desire for self-improvement. For example, Parashar notes, an overweight individual who is praised for their size might feel pressured to maintain their current state, even if they aspire to lose weight for health reasons.

“This situation can also foster a sense of imposter syndrome, where the individual doubts their worthiness of the praise they receive. It underscores the importance of encouraging health and self-acceptance simultaneously, without placing undue emphasis on a singular physical trait,” stresses Parashar.

Recognise hunger and fullness cues rather than adhering to restrictive diets. (Source: Freepik)

Striking a balance between accepting one’s body as it is and striving for healthier lifestyle changes

Parashar shares, “Body positivity and body neutrality are two approaches that can help.” While body positivity encourages embracing one’s appearance regardless of societal norms, body neutrality focuses on appreciating what the body can do rather than how it looks. Both approaches create a foundation for self-compassion, allowing individuals to make health-focused decisions without guilt or shame.

Here are practical strategies to achieve this balance, according to the expert:

Set health-focused, not weight-focused goals: Prioritise objectives like improving stamina, lowering cholesterol, or enhancing mental clarity over simply achieving a specific number on the scale.

Practice mindful eating: Recognise hunger and fullness cues rather than adhering to restrictive diets.

Seek professional guidance: Consulting a nutritionist or therapist can help develop personalised strategies that align with both acceptance and transformation.

Celebrate small victories: Acknowledge non-scale achievements like better sleep, increased energy, or improved mood.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.