Overcoming Body Shaming in Hinduism: Solutions, Mantras, and Practical Approaches
Body shaming can deeply affect one’s self-esteem and confidence, but in Hinduism, the body is viewed as a divine vessel, and various teachings, stories, and mantras offer tools for healing, acceptance, and empowerment. Here's an approach that integrates Hindu philosophy, deities, mantras, and practical steps to help overcome body shaming.
1. Philosophical Approach: The Body as a Divine Vessel
In Hinduism, the physical body is seen as a temple of the soul, and hence, it is sacred. Each person’s body, regardless of its form, is the result of karmic factors and divine will. Realizing the impermanence of the body and focusing on the spirit helps transcend superficial judgments.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches detachment from bodily identification:
Quote from the Bhagavad Gita (2.22):
"As a person puts on new garments, giving up old ones, the soul similarly accepts new material bodies, giving up the old and useless ones."
This reminds us that our true essence is beyond the physical form, helping us rise above the hurt of body shaming.
2. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions
A. Self-Compassion Practice (Ahimsa towards self)
Incorporate a daily practice of self-compassion, which aligns with the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence). This non-violence includes being gentle and loving towards oneself.
- Affirmation: Each morning, look into the mirror and say, "I honor the divine within me," or "I am a unique expression of the Divine."
B. Mindful Eating and Living
Embrace practices from Ayurveda, which emphasize balance. Mindful living, which includes respecting your body’s needs and caring for it through proper diet and daily routines, is key. Ayurveda emphasizes eating foods that nourish your body type (dosha), enhancing both physical and mental well-being.
C. Japa Meditation
Chanting specific mantras while focusing on self-acceptance and healing helps calm the mind and rebuild self-esteem. This spiritual practice gradually purifies negative emotions.
3. Mantras to Overcome Body Shaming
A. Goddess Durga Mantra
Invoke Goddess Durga to gain strength, courage, and self-worth. Durga is the goddess of power and protection, and her energy can help you overcome negativity.
- Mantra:
"Om Dum Durgayei Namaha"
(Meaning: I bow to Goddess Durga, the remover of all suffering.)
Chant this mantra 108 times daily to invoke the protective and empowering energy of Durga.
B. Kali Mantra
Goddess Kali symbolizes transformation and the destruction of ego and ignorance. She can empower you to reject societal judgments and embrace your true self.
- Mantra:
"Om Krim Kalikaye Namaha"
(Meaning: I bow to the goddess Kali, who destroys negativity and darkness.)
Chant this mantra 108 times to connect with the energy of transformation and inner strength.
C. Ganesha Mantra
Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles, including internal obstacles like low self-esteem caused by body shaming.
- Mantra:
"Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha"
(Meaning: I bow to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.)
Chant this mantra to remove any emotional blocks that are preventing you from accepting and loving your body.
D. Shiva Mantra
Lord Shiva represents both destruction of ignorance and renewal. His energy can help you shed old beliefs and embrace self-acceptance.
- Mantra:
"Om Namah Shivaya"
(Meaning: I bow to Shiva, the supreme consciousness.)
This powerful mantra aligns your mind with the truth of your divine self, transcending bodily identification.
E. Ashwini Kumaras Mantra (Gods of Health and Well-being)
The Ashwini Kumaras, the twin gods of health and healing, can help you develop a healthier perspective on your body and heal any emotional pain caused by body shaming.
- Mantra:
"Om Ashwini Kumarabhyaam Namaha"
(Meaning: I bow to the Ashwini Kumaras, the divine healers.)
Chanting this mantra invokes healing energy to rejuvenate both mind and body.
F. Dhanvantari Mantra
Lord Dhanvantari is the deity of health and medicine. His mantra can aid in both physical and emotional healing.
- Mantra:
"Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amrita Kalasha Hastaya Sarva Bhaya Vinashaya Trailokya Nathaya Sri Mahavishnave Namaha"
(Meaning: I bow to Lord Dhanvantari, who holds the nectar of immortality and who removes all fears and diseases.)
This mantra is particularly helpful for healing from any physical or emotional scars caused by body shaming.
4. Inspirational Stories from Hinduism
A. Lord Shiva’s Appearance
Lord Shiva is often depicted with an ash-smeared body, wearing animal skins, and adorned with serpents—symbols that might not conform to traditional beauty standards. Yet, Shiva is revered as the embodiment of supreme beauty and inner strength. His form teaches us to rise above surface appearances and embrace inner divinity.
B. Goddess Kali’s Fierce Form
Goddess Kali, with her dark skin, wild hair, and fierce form, is not bound by societal norms of beauty. Kali’s form challenges societal stereotypes and teaches that true power comes from within. Her story is a reminder that our worth is not tied to physical appearance but to the inner strength and spiritual power we cultivate.
C. Hanuman’s Strength and Devotion
Lord Hanuman, often depicted with a monkey-like appearance, is worshiped for his devotion, strength, and wisdom. Despite his unconventional form, Hanuman is one of the most loved deities, teaching us that true beauty lies in virtue, devotion, and inner strength.
5. Ideal Deities to Worship for Overcoming Body Shaming
- Goddess Durga for empowerment, inner strength, and protection.
- Goddess Kali for transformation and breaking free from societal judgments.
- Lord Ganesha to remove emotional and mental obstacles.
- Lord Shiva for transcendence and inner calm.
- Ashwini Kumaras for healing both physical and emotional scars.
- Lord Hanuman for self-confidence, strength, and unwavering faith in self.
6. Lesser-Known Facts & Solutions
A. Karma and Body
Hinduism teaches that the body is a result of one’s karma. Understanding that physical form is temporary and linked to karmic cycles can help diminish the emotional impact of body shaming.
B. Embracing All Forms of Beauty
In Hindu iconography, gods and goddesses are depicted in diverse forms—some fierce, some serene, some ascetic, and others adorned in beauty. This variety reflects the belief that beauty manifests in many forms, transcending conventional standards.
C. The Power of Bhakti (Devotion)
Bhakti (devotion) to any deity, particularly those like Hanuman and Durga, helps to cultivate inner strength and resilience. Focusing on divine love rather than external appearances helps to shift attention from the superficial to the spiritual.
In Hinduism, the journey of life is about realizing your soul’s divinity rather than identifying with the body. By chanting mantras, following the teachings, and invoking the blessings of powerful deities, you can rise above body shaming, embrace your unique self, and realize your inherent beauty as a reflection of the divine. Practicing self-compassion, mindfulness, and spiritual devotion will empower you to navigate this challenge with grace, strength, and dignity.