Sexual Objectification Series

I am in love with these Sociological Images posts about Sexual Objectification. As a feminist, sexual objectification seems so obvious that it’s the least of my worries, when really, it’s responsible for my most persistent, subconscious worries.

I’ve picked out a few of my favorite points and tips that the author, Caroline Heldman, provides. These are probably my favorites because they speak to me and my insecurities the most. Take a look at the series, particularly  part 3 “Daily Rituals to Stop” and part 4 “Daily Rituals to Start” and let me know which ones meant the most to you. I think they are all so valuable.

1) Start enjoying your body as a physical instrument.
Girls are raised to view their bodies as an thing-to-be-looked-at that they have to constantly work on and perfect for the adoration of others, while boys are raised to think of their bodies as tools to use to master their surroundings. We need to flip the script and enjoy our bodies as the physical marvels they are2) Do at least one “embarrassing” action a day.

Another healthy daily ritual that reinforces the idea that we don’t exist to be pleasing to others is to purposefully do at least one action that violates “ladylike” social norms.

4) Actively forgive yourself.

A lifetime of body hatred and self-objectification is difficult to let go of, and if you find yourself falling into old habits of playing self-hating tapes, seeking male attention, or beating yourself up for not being pleasing, forgive yourself. It’s impossible to fully transcend the beauty culture game since it’s so pervasive. It’s a constant struggle. When we fall into old traps, it’s important to recognize that, but quickly move on through self forgiveness. We need all the cognitive space we can get for the next beauty culture assault on our mental health.

And my favorite  fun activity:

When you see a woman who triggers competitiveness, practice active love instead. Smile at her. Go out of your way to talk to her. Do whatever you can to dispel the notion that female competition is the natural order. If you see a woman who appears to embrace the male attention game, instead of judging her, recognize the pressure that produces this and go out of your way to accept and love her.

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20. July 2012 by Juliana
Categories: Feminism | Tags: , , , | 2 comments

  • Kaaren Lynn Ray

    Thank you, Friend, for helping to “raise the bar” here and inspire me once again with your soulfulness,passion,tenacity, guts,brains and ” whole person beauty”. I finished the newspaper  column…unfortunately it is tiny and just a tiny taste of  very good food for reflection, consciousness-raising and commitment to action. 
    Gratitude for your work, your friendship and your deep dedication to assisting the plight of others without voice or empowerment. I will keep in better touch…..You are a force to be reckoned with and a voice that already speaks with such strength and integrity.  I Love You Dearly!!!… and am immensely proud of you , Kaaren+  

     P.S. I am committing myself to reading this blog consistently and to keeping better informed so that I can support more fully  the initiatives you share. On this day, recognizing the rights of all women to live without being victims of violence., I send you warmest hugs and wrap you in prayers for protection, grounding, strength, compassion, creativity, and renewed energy …in each new experience…. PEACE !…..NOW and ALWAYS !!!!!

  • Julianabritto

    Thanks so much Kaaren! I can’t wait to hear what you think :)