Elysian

The one thing in the world that is completely original and ours is our bodies themselves. Each curve, crevice, scar, and mole, is something that is inherently our own. As children grow into adolescents, the canvas of their body undergoes intricate changes set against the backdrop of tumultuous emotions. The mirror, once a neutral reflection of one's physical form, becomes a distorted lens through which teenagers perceive their worth. In a world saturated with airbrushed ideals and societal pressures, the image staring back often falls short of the unattainable standards set by external forces. The seeds of self-doubt, sown during this critical period, sprout into a garden of anxiety, depression, and an unrelenting quest for an elusive perfection that seems just out of reach. Teenage identity is woven with threads of inadequacy, leading to a distorted sense of self-worth. From glossy magazines to curated images on social media, an unattainable standard of beauty is perpetuated, leaving young impressionable minds of teenagers in a perpetual state of comparison. The relentless bombardment of these unrealistic ideals erodes the foundation of self-acceptance, replacing it with a toxic cocktail of self-loathing and shame. The journey through adolescence is tumultuous, marked by physical transformations that mirror the metamorphosis within. The once comforting contours of childhood bodies now undergo a profound shift, accompanied by a barrage of societal messages dictating what is deemed 'beautiful' or 'acceptable.'

Talking to some of my teenage friends, it's come to the matter that they ask questions to themselves that linger like ghosts in their dimly lit room. "Why can't I just change my body?" What's wrong with my body?"' Only, the mirror doesn't answer; it only reflects uncertainty. Making them seek solace in the imperfections that make them uniquely human. The obsession with body image can breed a toxic relationship with food and exercise. Teens, in their quest for acceptance, may resort to extreme measures to attain the perceived ideal, plunging into unhealthy habits that can have lasting repercussions on both physical and mental health. The silent battle waged within can lead to anxiety, depression, and even more severe mental health issues. What should be preached to teens is that beauty is not a static image but a kaleidoscope of experiences, emotions, and self-acceptance. The canvas of one’s reflection is a work in progress, and each day adds a new layer of color to the evolving masterpiece of my self-love. In this private gallery of self-discovery, one should find the courage to embrace the artistry of being themselves.