Tones and I: An inspiration to women’s health and body image
Image source: Getty/Mark Metcalfe
Toni Watson, better known as “Tones and I” set the ARIA’s alight last night with 4 ARIA awards and an energetic performance of her world hit “Dance Monkey”. But it was her acceptance speech that was not only humble but inspirational.
“I’m not into makeup or dresses or typically girly things, “ she said, “but to me, those things don’t really define what it is to be a female artist in this industry any more…it’s being brave and courageous and true to yourself”.
Social Media to blame
Unfortunately as the world becomes more and more connected to social media with Facebook, Instagram, twitter and YouTube displaying pictures of beautiful, flawless bodies, the drive to look perfect has never been greater. Yet, this comes at a cost to our health and in particular to our mental health, body image and self perception. Internet Trolls can be damaging to our self esteem and self worth.
“but what’s more important is that you have to be a good person and carry yourself well….thank you Australia for letting me know that I’m ok just the way I am.”
Eating disorders on the rise
Unfortunately the incidence of eating disorders is on the rise. They are a serious mental health condition that can have significant physical and emotional impact on those affected. Eating disorders are common mainly in females and young women but males can also be affected. Around 4% of Australians have been diagnosed with an Eating disorder. They all involve unhealthy relationship with food and eating and often an intense fear of being overweight.
The most common eating disorder is Binge Eating Disorder (47%). Binge eating involves two things:
- Eating a very large amount of food within a relatively short period of time
- Feeling a loss of control while eating; such as feeling unable to stop yourself from eating
Binge Eating Disorder
A person with Binge Eating Disorder (BED) will often eat very quickly, eating when they are not physically hungry and continuing to eat even when they are full, to the point of feeling uncomfortable. There are feelings of guilt and shame with eating resulting in very secretive behaviours or eating alone. Unfortunately BED is more common then you think and some of us have traits or variations of it without the full diagnosis.
Tones and I is not only a talented artist but she demonstrates to us that self worth is not based on how we look or how society expects us to dress or act. She is a successful because she believes in herself and her talent. She defies expectations of a very judgmental and superficial musical industry. You too, can be successful, not matter what industry you are in. It does not depend on what size dress you are or how beautiful look. Work on being healthy and fit rather than beautiful and thin. Focus on your talents and your abilities and do not let society determine the person you should be. You too will be successful but more important healthy and fit.
Seek Help
Binge eating disorder and body image issues are a serious condition. If you need help, please see your general practitioner. You also may find some helpful online programs on our website. And remember the wonderful example Toni Watson (Tones and I) has set.
#medicalandmindweightloss #mmwl #tonesandi #bodyimage
Director of Medical & Mind Weight Loss
