Actor and comedian Jamie Lever recently opened up about being body-shamed as a child and even as an adult in a candid conversation with actor and breast cancer survivor Chhavi Mittal on her podcast. Stressing that body shaming takes a toll, the 37-year-old said: “Yes, it does affect you. When I was growing up, I was constantly told that my nose was too big. One time, I was doing a photoshoot and the makeup artist said the nose had to be cut. The nose is too big. It breaks you. Because it’s like you are never going to be good enough,” Jamie said.
She also reiterated her struggles with weight, sharing that she used to be an obese kid. “I have had a weight loss journey. I have struggled with my weight. I have had PCOS. So, I am battling all these things already. I was told that big hips are an embarrassment, and have to cover them up. So, growing up, I always covered my lower body with long t-shirts or kurtis. I have always had a wardrobe like that,” the Crakk actor said.
But in spite of the unpleasant events, she has begun to accept who she really is. “It has taken me many years to realize that this is beautiful,” she remarked, thanking the Kardashian sisters for encouraging diversity in appearances. The Kardashians deserve some of the credit for making the booty so well-known. People then say, “Wow, curves really do look beautiful.” Some folks wish they had my physical type. Being truly at ease in my own flesh has taken time, Jamie said.
How can one manage body image issues?
According to dermatological specialist Dr. Bhawuk Dhir, body image problems are more prevalent than we realize and can begin at a very young age. We are continuously exposed to unattainable ideals of beauty, whether they relate to weight, facial characteristics, or skin tone. Even if unintentional, an excessive, unjustified remark about one’s body can have a long-lasting effect on one’s sense of self. Therefore, from the standpoint of dermatology and wellness, accepting oneself starts with realizing that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of beauty, Dr. Dhir told IndianExpress.com.
