Skin Deep
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In today's world, the concept of beauty is a complex tapestry interwoven with contradictory and conflicting messages. On one hand, there's a pervasive call to embrace oneself as one is, while on the other, there's immense pressure to undergo transformations to conform to societal standards. This duality creates a labyrinthine experience for individuals as they navigate between what they truly desire and what they feel compelled to do. It’s important for us to question where these deep rooted stories have came from and why we feel so compelled to change ourselves to what we perceive as looking better.
Youthfulness is idolised, often aligned with desirability and self-worth. However, the undeniable truth remains: our bodies inevitably undergo changes and ageing is an inevitable part of life. As we confront our reflections in the mirror, each of us embarks on a distinct journey of acceptance and adaptation, influenced by our personal experiences and societal conditioning.
While there's validity in making alterations to enhance your appearance, it's crucial to delve deeper into the root of our obsession with youthfulness and beauty standards. Why do we feel the need to constantly modify ourselves? What societal constructs have shaped our perceptions of beauty? Imagining a world where such pressures didn't exist prompts reflection on the pervasive nature of these ideals and their origins.
The presence of social media exacerbates this dilemma, inundating us with conflicting messages and contributing to a sense of confusion. Amidst the noise, it's easy to lose oneself and succumb to the narratives propagated by others. Each individual's journey becomes clouded by a whole host of opinions, leaving them unsure of the right path forward.
Despite efforts to alter our external appearances, studies reveal a recurring pattern of discontentment after a certain period of time after making a change we resort back to original feelings that were coming up and we look for the next thing to improve or change. This perpetual cycle underscores the importance of examining our internal narratives and challenging ingrained beliefs. True fulfilment cannot be achieved through superficial changes alone; it necessitates introspection and a reevaluation of our values and priorities.
While I personally harbour a passion for beauty and skincare, I've refrained from undergoing cosmetic procedures so far. At 41, I've witnessed the allure of such transformations and understand their appeal, yet I'm aware of the underlying societal pressures driving these decisions. I also know that once you embark on this maintenance is required and a commitment to this. My journey has been shaped by a commitment to inner wellness and self-care, informed by my own experiences and a desire for authenticity.
When I look at someone like my mother, who gracefully embrace ageing reinforces to me the importance of prioritising inner beauty over external appearances. It's a reminder that true beauty transcends age and physical perfection, rooted instead in self-acceptance and self-love. Despite societal pressures, I remain steadfast in my belief that authenticity should always take precedence over conformity.
As I continue on this journey, I remain open to the possibilities that lie ahead and I may decide to do certain things and remain open to this. Embracing the complexities of beauty and ageing is an ongoing process, one that requires introspection, resilience, and a willingness to challenge societal norms. While the road may be lined with obstacles, it's also an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and ultimately, liberation from the confines of external expectations. This conversation on beauty is vast and multifaceted, and I readily anticipate further exploration and dialogue on this transformative journey as I move through it.
I’d love to hear your thought on this.
This is a huge topic, I will talk about this more in future.
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All my love
Hannah X