Reclaiming Body Confidence: As A PATH TO PLEASURE
As some of you already know, last month I underwent breast explant surgery. I’m nearly two weeks post op and I am feeling so happy with my decision to allow my body to take her natural form. So this month I wanted to delve deeper into a topic that feels real for me right now:
Society's beauty standards and it’s impact on pleasure and our self-image.
From a young age, we are bombarded with images and messages that define beauty in narrow, often unattainable ways. These standards dictate how we should look, dress, and behave, creating a culture of comparison and self-doubt.
Society’s beauty standards often prioritise particular body types, ethnicities, or facial features, leaving many of us feeling inadequate if we don’t fit these norms. Constant exposure to idealised images can erode our self-esteem, leading to feelings of shame and unworthiness.
So what happens then? We begin to believe that our value as women is tied to our appearance rather than our inherent worth.
It’s Impact on Mental Health
Studies show that societal pressure to conform to beauty standards contribute to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders among women and young girls. The pursuit of perfection takes a toll on our mental, emotional and sexual well-being.
We Must Challenge These Standard To Make Change
Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, colours, and ages. Embracing diversity means celebrating the uniqueness of every woman and rejecting the notion that there is only one definition of beauty.
Self-acceptance is our out! It is a radical act of self-love and rebellion against these norms that seek to diminish our worth. When we challenge beauty standards, we empower ourselves and others to embrace the truth of who we are. We pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Now I know it is easier said than done but believe me I am in this with you If you want my support. It’s time we redefine beauty on our own terms.
Embracing Body Confidence Within Myself
My journey to body confidence has been a long one and its on going. I have spent many years now connecting back to my body, connecting to my womb, and my eros, through pleasure, movement, dance and sacred feminine wisdom. Which has been huge for my self-worth & acceptance.
My recent need for explant surgery following a cancer scare, and my decision to not have the implants replaced to just be my true natural self has felt like a pivotal moment in my journey toward fully reclaiming my body.
To see for myself that I now have the capacity to love myself how I am, has shown me how far I have come on this journey. From the 21 year old young mother who felt she needed them to feel confident in her body, to the 35 year old who today knows her worth is not measured by her appearance. My explant feels like a break free from societal expectations as I embrace my body as it is — imperfect, yet uniquely mine.
The Power of Body Confidence In Pleasure
When we honour our bodies and treat them with devotion and reverence, we open ourselves up to receiving more love, joy, and pleasure. We begin to see our bodies not as objects to be judged, but as vessels of strength, eros, and beauty.
Self-Acceptance: When we accept and love our bodies as they are, we free ourselves from the constant pressure to change or hide. This acceptance allows us to fully inhabit our bodies and experience life more deeply.
Increased Intimacy: Confidence in our bodies enhances our intimate relationships. We become more open to physical and emotional connection, allowing us to experience deeper love and pleasure with our partners.
Enhanced Pleasure: When we honour our bodies and treat them with devotion and reverence, we become more attuned to the subtleties our senses. This heightened awareness leads to greater pleasure in everyday moments.
Joyful Living: Body confidence empowers us to live joyfully and authentically. We become more present, embracing each moment with gratitude and joy instead of being in our heads about our image. This shift in mindset transforms our lives, allowing us to experience true happiness.
Infusing Pleasure into Your Life
I want to share my favourite simple practice that has helped me reconnect with my body and find joy and pleasure in everyday moments.
Mindful Movement: Spend 10 minutes in the morning dancing to your favourite music (Ive shared my ‘feel good house music’ playlist here). Feel the energy flow through your body and watch your pleasure come alive.
Are you ready to go deeper?
Inside my Sensual Mama 8 week online container, discover the transformative power of movement, dance, sensuality and pleasure, and become the empowered, BODY-CONFIDENT woman you want to be.
Click to Join the movement toward reclaiming the body of WOMAN
As women who challenge beauty standards, we can inspire others to do the same. By embracing our authenticity and celebrating our individuality, we create a ripple effect of self-empowerment and acceptance.
Remember, YOU deserve to feel radiant, confident, and deeply connected to your sacred body, pleasure and desires. Let’s walk this path together.
With love, Alisha 🌹