Unraveling Exercise Avoidance & Body Shame in Young Girls with Vanessa Coulbeck

When we don't feel good about how we look, some of us avoid physical activity. Why might that be the case? I am joined by Vanessa Coulbeck, a researcher at Body Image and Health Research Lab, a Research group studying the body, self, and (mental) health at Western university in Toronto. We explore the fascinating intersection of body image, self-compassion, and mental health among female adolescents. Vanessa's research interests include body image, psycho educational practices and programming focused on female adolescent involvement in sport and physical activity. She is also interested in emotion regulation processes (self-compassion & mindfulness) to promote a positive and uplifting environment with hopes to improve physical activity adherence throughout girls lifespan, and a greater appreciation for being compassionate and mindful towards the self. We discussed: Why might girls be more physically inactive than boys? What role does body shame and self-objectification play in young girls' physical inactivity? How can self-compassion buffer against the negative effects of body image threats? Advice for someone struggling with body shame Key areas that need further exploration and research regarding self-conscious emotions, body image and physical activity Find Vanessa Here: Email: [email protected] Instagram: bihresearch WORK WITH SHANNON Join the Body Image Fundamentals Course Get coached by Shannon. CONNECT Join the Empowered Edit weekly newsletter Connect with Shannon on Instagram DM Shannon directly to enquire about private mentorship.