Body Image Mastery is a totally new concept on long-term weight loss. How often have we lost weight, only to gain them all back and more? Or how often have we vowed to start an exercise program but lack the dedication to finish it? These, and many other symptoms of a chronic dieter, may be the result of a negative self-image and low self-esteem. Laura Fenamore, a self-styled Body Image Mastery Mentor, has put forth a bold concept linking how we perceive ourselves with the success of our weight loss efforts.
Most people who embark on diets to lose weight usually gain it back over a period of time. To achieve a more permanent weight loss, one has to take several steps. Some of these strategies include having to report daily food choices and exercise programs to a diet mentor or a friend, incorporating a healthier lifestyle, and accepting that permanent weight loss takes time.
These steps are included in the Body Image Mastery program of Fenamore. Fenamore can act as a mentor and life coach to those who want to embark on the program. The program does not advocate any fad diets or exhort one to stick to a rigid exercise program. Instead, the program focuses on how one perceives himself and his body.
Several self-defeating traps were identified. Participants in this program have to work through these traps and come to terms with ourselves. Some of the misconceptions regarding our body image and our relationship with food can be traced back to childhood. How our family, friends, and society in general, contribute to our image of the ideal body is discussed.
In Body Image Mastery, participants have to sift through their psyche to get to the root cause of their dissatisfaction with their bodies. They are taught to let go of their negative feelings toward their bodies. Fenamore believes that self-acceptance is the first step to taking a more active role in how we care for our bodies. Loving ourselves will help us veer away from self-destructive habits.
To date, there has been no research on the effectiveness of Body Image Mastery. However, Fenamore attests to her program’s results, having lost more than 100 lbs herself. There are also testimonials from several people who have successfully lost weight using the teachings of this program. They claim that Body Image Mastery achieves a more lasting effect because it involves changing our way of life and thinking.
