The other fascists...

Not talking Neo Nazism here... Although...

I'm talking about body fascism. Ever been a victim?

I hate that people are judged by their body size, shape, etc. It's not just a 'meeting the other half' issue, but you can be a victim of this kind of discrimination in employment, receipt of goods and services, as well as education.

The Equality Act 2010 covers many protected characteristics, but does not protect individuals from discrimination based on their appearance, body size, shape, etc... A weakness in the legislation? Or a big can of worms waiting to burst open?

We live in a beauty obsessed world. We cannot go a day without seeing images of men and women with perfect bodies, perfect smiles, perfect hair, perfect fashion sense... It's madness. Why are we so beauty obsessed? Is it genetic? I would argue to an extent, that selection pressure to choose more attractive people is innate. But! We have brains, we can think beyond our innate tendencies. We have the gift of thought and reflection.

I was in Finland last year (my second time). I was so relieved to see a lack of body fascism within their culture. We had a house party and men and women of all shapes got their kit off. No body batted an eye lid. It was so liberating, and so wonderful to experience. I have been in the sauna with many naked men there, with their bellies hanging over their knees, not giving a damn. How wonderful! I'm a skinny mini myself and used to hate my body. The beauty obsessed media certainly played a role in my insecurity. Luckily I now love the body I have...

My advice is not easy, and is hard, but guys, learn to love your body no matter what, and your confidence will win over.

You're all beautiful!