"Our hope is to move our patients toward an acceptance of their bodies along with a commitment to treat their bodies with respect." Jenny Hazel, Body Image Specialist

Patients at Remuda Ranch are as physically diverse as they are emotionally and mentally diverse. Yet, one characteristic they often hold in common is a high level of body dissatisfaction or negative body image.

Many factors influence a person's body image, but for our purposes, the most important piece of the body image puzzle is that it's flexible, it can change from negative to positive. Once we assess each patient's degree of body distortion/dissatisfaction, we can begin to move from body loathing to body love.

Body Image is comprised of three domains: physical, emotional, and spiritual. We address the physical realm by confronting distortions through body tracings, mirror and photography work, and clothing challenges. We strive to refocus our patients' thoughts on the body's function versus their appearance. We also increase body awareness through movement activities such as relaxation, dance, equine events, stretching, and psychodrama.

Interestingly, 50% desire a smaller body, and another 50% want to become bigger, with more defined muscles. Teaching proper strength training is therefore an important component of body work with boys.

The emotional domain of body image is addressed by identifying feelings about the body, understanding the connection between influences and body image, identity development, and exercises that enhance appreciating/loving the body and self. This is accomplished through peer and self-affirmations, healthy comparisons, and intentionally practicing self-respect. Through these methods, we are able to help our patients heal their interpersonal relationship with their bodies.

For additional information about Remuda Programs, please call 1-800-445-1900 today.