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. 2022 Nov 21;10(11):e41800. doi: 10.2196/41800

Table 1.

Body image and self-compassion–focused intervention messages.

Intervention messages Examples
Body image
  • Did you know, media images are often edited after a photoshoot? For example, complexions are cleaned, eyelines are softened, thighs and stomachs are thinned. Hence, it is not wise to match yourself to these appearance ideals. Can you think of other ways in which media images are edited?

Mindfulness
  • I hope you have not been too hard on yourself this week. Every time you catch yourself being judgmental or critical about yourself or your body

    • Gently acknowledge and hold the thought in your mind.

    • Breathe slowly, and allow yourself to notice the emotional pain or sensations.

    • Remember, it is perfectly ok for your mind to wander.

    • Simply notice it and gently guide your attention back to your body.

    • Slowly, give yourself compassion by reframing the inner dialogue into something encouraging and supportive.

    • Remember, you can always think of how a wise, nurturing friend, parent, teacher or mentor would say to encourage and support you.

Common humanity
  • Sometimes, our self-critical voice can be so common that we do not even notice when it is present. Many others have felt this way before too. Have you ever noticed what you say to yourself when you are feeling bad about yourself? Let’s try to soften this self-critical voice with compassion.

Self-kindness
  • Be kind to yourself and your body. Do not say things about your body and self that you would not say to a friend.

Behavioral tips
  • Try not to check yourself on reflective surfaces when you are up and around! Enjoy your surroundings! :)

Affirmations
  • Hey! You are a limited edition and one of a kind! Appreciate all the good things that you and your body can do! :)