The holidays are typically revered for their many meanings: quality family time, the comfort of being warm while it snows outside, and the piles of food being made in the name of the holiday spirit. With as much food that’s made during these holidays, some people feel the need to shy away from getting another plate.

  While some people don’t think anything of the holiday meals, others still find it hard to get themselves to eat due to issues that stem from body dysmorphia to comments other people make as they see them.

  “During the year, you’re around people you’re comfortable with such as parents and siblings, but during the holiday season you’re around extended family members,” Patricia Danko, social worker, said. “Sometimes family members have a tendency to make comments about how you look when they see you, and you may be anxious to see a particular person that you know makes comments.”

  With the anxiety some people may feel throughout the holidays, regardless of whether it has to do with comments family members make or the food that’s presented, there’s a movement that focuses on the positive aspects of one’s body. This movement is known as body positivity, which is defined as the assertion that all people deserve to have a positive body image, as according to verywellmind.com.

  “The body positivity movement isn’t new, however neither are our insecurities,” Christina Florence, health teacher and sponsor of the beYOUty project, said. “It comes down to being comfortable in your own skin, but also recognizing that how you carry yourself is how you feel about yourself.”

  As the holidays are approaching, it may help those struggling with their body image to focus on things outside of what’s going on in their head. Reading a book, turning on music, any sort of distraction could be of use when it comes to being stuck. However, there’s still some advice that may render useful throughout these times.

  “You don’t have to feel like you’re projecting an image of yourself for other people; you’re existing for yourself,” Sophia Cerda, senior, said.

  Even if one personally doesn’t experience these struggles, there’s still steps they’re able to use to help out those around them who do struggle with their body image.

  “One way people can promote body positivity is by complimenting things that aren’t related to one’s physical appearance,” Mackenzie Burgess, senior, said. “To support people who struggle with comments on their weight and body image in general by complimenting them in other aspects.”

  The holidays are a time where people are able to relax and enjoy the end of their year, however that can feel next to impossible if people who are struggling are in environments that don’t recognize their different needs.

 “Take a break from social media, and focus more on positive things you can do on a daily basis, such as hobbies that include hanging out with positive friends,” Danko said.

  With the end of the year approaching, there’s still time left to try to let go of these negative feelings before they snowball into a bigger issue.

  “Find the positives in yourself, and your body is a reflection of you and find the positive things within yourself and learn to be okay with being you,” Florence said.