People judge you for your outer appearance and ignore the beauty that resides in your heart. That's why most of us criticize others for their body structure, dressing, makeup, or style they carry. However, it shouldn't be the case.

Being human, the first thing we should avoid doing is hurting others. As the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W.) said in Hadees:

"The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe." - Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 10

When you harm others, you are, in fact, putting your reputation in danger in front of ALLAH (the Almighty God) and, of course, in this world. 

What Is Body Shaming?

Verbally, making fun of others and their body to let them feel ashamed and inferior is commonly known as body shaming. When you mock someone's physical appearance, you not only demeaning that person but also losing your worth in their eyes. 

Body shaming has many categories, like height-shaming, fat-shaming, shaming for thinness, shaming for lack of hair, looks-shaming, and whatnot. Interestingly, all these categories have sub-categories, and so on.

We never miss a single chance to ridicule others on the basis of temporary beauty standards. Well, many people even forget their own appearance while doing so. 

Some Real-Life Examples:

• Since childhood, I have been ridiculed for my long nose and curly hairs. People used to mimic my belongings in a way that satisfies them but in reality, it hurt me. I remember a time when my hair bore a resemblance to a broom and my nose to some long tunnel. Such comments always put me in the thought that maybe I am lacking in something.
• Then, one of my friends burst out crying one day and told me how her fiancé makes fun of her looks and color. Such demeaning comments from his future husband took all her confidence.
• Also, I have seen people criticizing and humiliating others for their body shape, size, or weight.

Recent Incident:

A few days ago, a famous brand changed its facial cream name after the criticism that it faced from the people. Over time, body shaming is strongly condemned on many platforms. But, still, nobody tries to get rid of this bad habit completely.

The question that arises here is WHY???

Why the hell we do this?

Note: Accept my apologies for being so realistic and straightforward. 

The answer I have is a mirror for those who do this more often. 

My Stance:

In my view, when you mimic someone or practice an act of deriding others, you actually overcome your anxiety, the anxiety that is the result of your hidden inferiority complex.

Yes, with such disorders, unknowingly, people find healing and pleasure in harming others' confidence and tranquility. Hypothetically, when you make fun of others’ body parts or personalities, it comes to you back one or the other way round. 

How To Overcome Body Shaming?

Below, I have some amazing tricks to stop all this crap:

1. Self-Love Is Important

Never underestimate yourself just because you are chubby, or possess a darker skin tone, or long, not-so-beautiful hands. Start loving yourself in the first place. Play a small game, like a “mirror mirror on the wall! Who is the fairest of them all?” and every time tell yourself that it's you.

2. Pay Less Heed To Comments

Stop lending your ears to the people around. Don’t let others’ harsh comments harm your mental strength. Don’t join such groups where body shaming is casually practiced. Stop replying to such people, and give them a shut-up call by completely avoiding their existence.

3. Stay Strong & Confident

ALLAH has created everyone in the best form, so why would you feel ashamed? From your looks to your personality, everything is as perfect as it was created. Therefore, I suggest you stay resilient in your looks and walk confidently.

4. Smile Big

People who want to put you in disgrace, will never like a smile coming on your face. Let’s smile big and tell them that hurting your emotions and strength is not as easy as they have perceived it to.

5. Report Body-Shaming Act On Social Media

Stand up against cyberbullying and report followers or friends who do body shaming on public platforms. Not only this but also spread awareness among the people on how they can restrict others from passing inappropriate comments or using foul languages on such online platforms.

Wrapping Up With A Small Advice

• Look beautiful BUT for yourself
• Get slim and smart body BUT for yourself
• Bring changes in your dressing BUT for yourself

After all, the only person who is going to stay longer with you is YOU!

So, try to keep yourself happy first, and don’t let the humiliating act of body shaming harm your personality.

Happy Reading!