“The beauty of a living thing is not the atoms that go into it, but the way those atoms are put together.” ~ Carl Sagan
This post discusses body image and self perception around body image.
I have had this image a while but it was one of those images that whilst I could see the beauty of it overall there were also parts of that I didn’t like. Actually not really parts but part, my tummy. And so I didn’t post it when I first took it but over time that initial discomfort has waned and each time I look at it I see my belly less and the rest of the image more.
The lines and structure of my collar bones and shoulder, the little wisp of hair, the delicate freckles that pattern my chest, the curve of my breasts, the way my nipples stand out and the definition of the muscle in my thigh.
It is hard to ignore that the things I perceive as flaws, they are the first thing I saw in the image and for a while the only thing but the more time I have spent looking at the image that have changed. I see it less, it seems less important, no longer the only thing I can see and as a result the quote above feels accurate. The beauty is not about what my tummy looks like, or any other part of me but how it all fits together, how all the atoms of me are put together.
13 comments
We are all so much more than the sum of our parts. It’s a lovely photo and I’m glad you shared it. To be honest, being reminded that everyone, even the graceful, slim, desirable bodies like yours, are subject to insecurity is quite heartening. None of us should be made to feel inadequate but it’s good perspective that even slim folks see body flaws and those of us who are not so slim are not alone in our challenges of body perception.
Yes, it took billions and billions and billions to make this alluring shot.
And what a beautiful collection of atoms you are <3 x
Such a nice photo, glad you posted it here.
Many things I see in myself and think oh no, but then they make me who I am.
I’m glad you decided to share this photo. You look beautiful.
We are all so much more critical of ourselves than the average outside viewer would ever be. I know that inner voice cannot necessarily be negated by the words of others but for the record: You look incredibly fit to me.
I love the way the light brightens patches of your skin.
You are a lovely pile of stardust!
It really is hard to see past a perceived flaw. It really takes time and practice I think. Glad you shared this, it’s such a strong and powerful image.
Simply beautiful … photograph AND words !!!
Xxx – K
This is just beautiful but I understand how you feel about your perceived flaws. What stands out like a sore thumb to us don’t even register with others. I’m glad they’ve waned and you decided to share this because it’s outstanding.
you are perfect
I’m so glad you posted this Molly. I’m similar with a lot of my photos and I have to learn to live with them sometimes before I feel I can post them. The angles in this image and the shapes are beautiful.
Missy x
I saw this image come across your site header and was compelled to click. Stunning. The lay of shadow and light at first glance, to my eye, made your skin appear to be oiled. Beautiful lines and shapes. Like a Rodin marble.