Body Positivity Amplified: The Body Image Movement and Its Impact
The Body Image Movement (BIM) is a global initiative committed to nurturing self-love and fostering body acceptance. At its core is Taryn Brumfitt, a renowned keynote speaker, bestselling author, and director of inspirational documentaries like “Embrace” and “Embrace Kids.” Taryn’s influence extends globally, having earned recognition from esteemed organizations such as UN Women, Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, and the Geena Davis Institute. Her impactful talks, including one at Google HQ in Silicon Valley, have resonated across every Google office worldwide.
Acknowledged as a South Australian finalist in the 2019 Australian of the Year awards, Taryn has been named among the Australian Financial Review 100 Women of Influence in 2018. She received the SA Award for Excellence in Women’s Leadership and was crowned EY Entrepreneur of the Year, South Australia. Taryn’s commitment to making a profound impact on global body image and self-love is evident in her achievements and accolades.
A two-time marathon runner, devoted mother of four, and lover of life, Taryn remains humble yet determined in her quest for a positive body image revolution. Her rise to prominence began with the 2013 “Before & After” photo, challenging societal norms and conveying a powerful message that all bodies are unique and worthy of embrace, regardless of how they transform over time.
In 2016, Taryn released the documentary “Embrace,” which explores body image issues and the global impact of beauty standards. The film encourages a shift in focus from appearance to valuing the body for its capabilities and experiences, sparking conversations on body positivity and self-acceptance worldwide.
Under Taryn’s guidance, The Body Image Movement urges individuals to defy harmful body ideals and embrace their bodies in all forms. Advocating a message of self-love, Taryn encourages people to recognize their worth beyond physical appearance, challenging societal beauty norms and fostering a healthier relationship with their bodies.
Reflecting on personal experiences supporting individuals on their journeys to better mental health, I have witnessed the detrimental effects of negative body image on self-esteem. It can hinder people from achieving their goals, living life to their full potential, and even alter day-to-day activities to minimize the harm caused by body shaming.
With an unwavering passion for this field, I have derived immense joy from bearing witness to the transformative journeys of my clients. One project, in particular, stands out as particularly rewarding—the inception and execution of the “Her Image” program, crafted from the ground up and delivered within a group setting.
This innovative program seamlessly integrates various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT). Drawing inspiration from influential movements such as The Body Image Movement, our discussion groups delve into profound topics, ranging from Body Image and the ever-changing ideals that surround it to introspective explorations of self-perception.
In a unique twist, I harnessed my passion for photography to elevate the program further. Participants were invited to engage in a powerful exercise: posing for black and white portraits. These captured moments, viewed through the lens of others, served as a catalyst for profound change. The carefully chosen images offered a fresh perspective, enabling individuals to shift away from subjective viewpoints and confront and challenge detrimental fault-finding patterns.
In essence, the Her Image program embodies the belief that sometimes, all it takes is a change in perspective to unlock profound personal growth and empowerment.
Author: Ania Harnden, BSocialWork, AMHSW, EMDR Therapist
If you or someone you know could benefit from therapeutic work focused on body image issues, I encourage you to refer them to a professional who can help them embrace the body they are living in. To book an appointment with Ania, select Online Booking or call Vision Psychology Brisbane on (07) 3088 5422.
References:
- Njål Andersen , Viren Swami (2021) Science mapping research on body image: A bibliometric review of publications in Body Image, 2004–2020
- Sarah Graham a, Eva Newell a, Justin B. Phillips b, Myra Pritchard a, Damian Scarf (2023) Body Image