Body Neutral: A Revolutionary Guide to Overcoming Body Image Issues

Kneeland presents a fresh approach to body acceptance in their thought-provoking debut. Drawing on their experience as a personal trainer and body image coach, the author argues that the body positivity movement and its “all bellies are beautiful” slogans are flawed since they tie self-worth to appearance. Instead, Kneeland advocates for “body neutrality,” which involves “stripping our bodies of all false... meaning,” and is a more realistic goal for those unable to meet society’s thin, white ideal. To achieve body neutrality, readers should identify what drives their body fixations (and associated diet and exercise behaviors)—such as winning external validation, or feeling a sense of psychological control over their life—and then brainstorm healthier coping mechanisms to address the root issue. Readers should also envision a future in which their emotional needs are met. Doing so, the author writes, will free readers from obsessing over appearance and allow them to ask themselves, for example “What would need to be different for [me] to stop placing so much... power on [my] body?” and then formulate micro-steps toward that goal. Kneeland outlines an inclusive attitude toward self-acceptance aimed at readers of all races and gender identities, and the advice is informed without getting preachy. Anyone hoping to repair a troubled relationship with their body should give this a look. (June)