ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses taking up space socially, emotionally, and physically. For those with body image struggles, feeling the need to suppress space typically begins emotionally or socially before expanding to physical space. To pursue body neutrality, individuals must shift toward seeing themselves as worthy of taking up physical, emotional, and social space. The first activity asks readers to identify someone they admire, followed by a consideration of how this person “takes up space” in areas where the reader struggles. The second activity asks readers to reflect on the ways they take up space physically, socially, and emotionally; readers are especially encouraged to consider where they struggle with suppressing their own space and to consider what it would look like to pursue taking up space in this category.
