How to Look Good Naked With a Difference

I mentioned in a previous blog that I’d been busy with a great opportunity, and I’m pleased to say that some of it is on television tonight. Late last year I was offered the chance to participate in “How to Look Good Naked With a Difference” and I jumped at the chance. I’ve watched the programmes before and have appreciated how much attention Gok Wan pays to rebuilding self esteem and re educating women to see the best in themselves.

I do feel very strongly that negative body image is a big problem for disabled women. Millions of able bodied women complain about trying to strive for physical perfection through diets, exercise and plastic surgery; but what about us disabled women for whom there is no quick fix through those routes? We have to learn accept what we have and make the very best of it. I think that makes us pretty strong, formidable, sexy women.

And who dictates what physical perfection is? Who is our judge & jury? Is there some illusive organisation that dictates who is imperfect? Or is it just us as women running ourselves down?  As a disabled model I often feel under scrutiny, but not because I’m paraplegic with no stomach muscles, but because in recent years I’ve put on weight. That has caused me more stress before stripping for a shoot than being paralysed in front of the camera ever did! We need to learn to love our bodies for the fabulous machines that they are; love every lump, bump, scar, stump, slack muscle, stretch mark, rebuilt bones. They all tell a story and contribute to the women we are; pretty damn perfect!

I haven’t seen the final edit so I’ll be watching tonight, but I had a brilliant time during filming, everyone involved was great to work with and it was a joy to collaborate with two gorgeous and talented disabled presenters Natasha Wood and Nikki Fox.

Hope you enjoy – Channel 4 8pm Tuesday 19 January

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/how-to-look-good-naked/episode-guide/series-6/episode-1

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