I am a woman

but I have a voice.

I am a woman

but my tears don’t like to fall.

I am a woman

but my opinions are stronger than steel.

I am a woman

but I can run as fast as a cheetah.

I am a woman

but sometimes my grades are lower
than the titanic.

I am a women

but my face is spotted, with big, red, painful dots all over.

I’m a woman.

I am loud.

I am a woman.

I’m not emotional.

I am a woman.

I don’t hold back.

I am a woman.

I’m athletic.

I am a woman.

I’m not smart.

I am a woman.

I’m not beautiful.

I am a woman.

The post I am a Woman appeared first on GirlSpring.

Society teaches women that they should hate themselves. Every woman has something fundamentally wrong with her — whether it’s her waist, her face, her breasts, or her bum. There are a million options for a woman to choose from when deciding what she will loathe about herself for the rest of her life. Hating your body has become an accepted and expected reality of womanhood. To understand how women’s insecurities have turned into a trillion-dollar industry, one must realize beauty standards in terms of class, race, age, and economics. Once you understand these concepts, it is easy to see that the industry that claims to support women’s self-confidence is little more than misogyny wrapped in a pretty pink bow.

The Effect of Class

For much of human history, the ideal woman was curvaceous and full-figured; love handles signified health and regular access to food. In ancient Rome, a fair complexion was ideal because it meant a woman did not have to labor outside. In ancient India, it was considered beautiful to have long, glossy hair — hair products were exclusive and expensive. The one thing all beauty standards have in common, past and present, is that they represent something only the wealthy can achieve. When only the rich can meet beauty standards that they themselves set, they automatically become the beautiful class. Until very recently, the rich were almost viewed as a different species of human. Wealthy people were considered the superior class because they had natural intelligence, beauty, and elegance that the poor simply did not have. For thousands of years, they dictated what was beautiful and what was not, so, of course, they made physical perfection something only they could achieve.

The Effect of Race

Racism has had, and continues to have, a significant impact on beauty standards. Granted, for much of human history, racism did not take the same form as it does today. The very concept of race didn’t formally emerge until the late sixteenth century (1). The Medium (2) notes that one of the ways colonialism retained its power from the very beginning was through implementing Eurocentric beauty standards: “Beauty standards weren’t merely aesthetic preferences — they were sophisticated tools of cultural domination that could achieve what armies alone could not. By systematically devaluing indigenous features while promoting European ideals as universal markers of civilization, colonizers created a psychological dependency that outlasted their political control.” Dr. Frantz Fanon (3) described this as ‘epidermalization’ — the internalization of racial hierarchies that led to self-hatred and cultural alienation. When one fundamentally hates their natural appearance and believes another group to be superior, they become easy targets for oppression. Beauty standards have been used as psychological oppression for both the poor and racial minorities for nearly 400 years, and these standards remain foundational to modern ideals.

The Effect of Age

In the 1950s, the ideal woman was a woman. She had a grown body, a mature face; she had a female body that had gone through puberty. But in the 1960s, with the rise of second-wave feminism (4), the United States saw the birth of childlike beauty standards. When women stopped acting like helpless children, the media stopped romanticizing women and started romanticizing helpless children. Suddenly, big eyes, small hands, smooth porcelain skin, petite bodies, and young blonde hair were in every magazine. Now, sixty years later, it is a trillion-dollar industry for women to look as young as possible. Women bleach their hair to mimic childhood, buy anti-wrinkle products to erase smile lines, and go on extreme diets to remain as thin as they were before puberty. This infantilization of girls’ bodies and minds has led to the vilification of women’s bodies and minds.

Love Yourself

Beauty standards are not harmless coincidences; they are well-thought-out and executed weapons. They are meant to elevate the rich and punish the poor. These standards intend to devalue and dehumanize whole cultures to glorify the colonial powers. At their most insidious, they attempt to make women hate themselves for simply aging. Every standard has been designed to control, shame, and keep women chasing an impossible fantasy that is not even their own. In a world of impossible standards, it is crucial to remember that they only hold power over you as long as you give them that power. Ignore them. Reject them. Remember, the strongest rebellion against these standards is loving yourself.

Citations

1. “The History of the Idea of Race.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, 29 Aug. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/topic/race-human/The-history-of-the-idea-of-race.
2. Sadat, Nazmus. “The Invisible Chains: How Colonial Beauty Standards Continue to Shape Our Mirror’s Reflection.” Medium, 30 Jun. 2025, https://medium.com/@sadat99/the-invisible-chains-how-colonial-beauty-standards-continue-to-shape-our-mirrors-reflection-c0d8f24f3081.
3. “Frantz Fanon | Biography, Writings, & Facts.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, 29 Aug. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Frantz-Fanon.
4. “Second Wave of Feminism | Definition, Goals, Accomplishments, Leaders, & Facts.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, 22 Sept. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/topic/second-wave-feminism.

The post Understanding Beauty Standards: Simplified appeared first on GirlSpring.

Visit a hairstylist

Visiting a hairstylist is one of the easiest (and most fun!) ways to change your whole look in a single day. A new haircut can completely change your appearance and face shape, so a good hairstyle is a must. It’s important to visit a hairstylist so that you can ask a professionals opinion on what hair color and cut will look best with your look! Make sure if you set an appointment to bring photos of the hair you want, so your stylist will know exactly what you’re going for.

Experiment with make up

If you’re a girl and you’ve never experimented with make up before, it can really change your appearance! One of the best ways to get exposure to make up and how to learn some tips is by the magical and wonderful world of no other than Youtube. You can simply search “Make up tutorial” on Youtube, and millions of videos will pop up. The good news with the summer is that you have plenty of time to practice and perfect your look! That way, if a makeup tutorial goes wrong, you can just wash it right off and nobody even saw! And if you decide you don’t like wearing make up, then it makes your life even easier!

Get healthy

Something good for your body, skin, and mental health is deciding to get healthy! Getting healthy can be as easy as deciding to work out a few days a week, or limiting the amount of junk food you eat. The healthier you become, the better you will feel! Plus being healthy helps you live your best life, so this one should be near the top of your list.

Take care of your body

Whether it be through skin care, working out or taking time to yourself, taking care of your own body can make a huge difference. From treating yourself to a mani pedi, finding a toothpaste that whitens your teeth, or even finding the perfect shade of self-tanner, taking care of your body has a huge impact on the way you look. This means going to the doctor, dentist, dermatologist- you name it! Your body is all you’ve got- so treat it with some respect!

Become confident with who you are

If you have any sort of transformation this summer before coming back to school, let it be this- learn to be confident in your own skin! You don’t have to look any specific way to “glo up” because glowing up should be the way you feel about yourself. If you learn to love the reflection in the mirror, it will translate into the way other people see you!

The post How To GLOW UP This Summer appeared first on GirlSpring.

GirlSpring’s Affirmation Wednesday is a weekly series that shares uplifting affirmations written by teen girls, for teen girls. These affirmations were created by girls who participated in the Girls at the Center Program, which was supported by a grant from the Women’s Foundation of Alabama in 2022 and 2024. Each Wednesday, a new affirmation is posted to help others feel seen, encouraged, and motivated to take on the week with confidence.

What makes it special is that the affirmations come straight from real girls who’ve been through it—sharing honest, heartfelt words that inspire others to keep going. It’s all about building a positive space where girls support each other, one powerful affirmation at a time

1. You’re not just an artist, you’re what art is. 
2. If you don’t feel loved right now, you’re around the wrong people. 
3. There’s nothing wrong with how you dress; everyone’s style fits who they are. 
4. Your hair fits you; you rock anything. 
5. You’re weirdly amazing.
6. You try your very best. 
7. There’s no “should’ve, could’ve, would’ve.” It’s done already. 
8. You are doing what your heart desires. 
9. There’s no such thing as “being too smart.” You are a scholar. 
10. You are gorgeous, inside and out. Your looks don’t define you.

The post Girl Spring Affirmation Wednesday appeared first on GirlSpring.

What Body Positivity Means

Body positivity has evolved far beyond the simple “love your body” mantras we see plastered across social media. At its core, this movement recognizes that your worth as a person isn’t determined by how closely you align with society’s changing beauty ideals. It’s about understanding that bodies are diverse, dynamic, and deserving of respect regardless of size, shape, ability, or appearance.

Body positivity isn’t about toxic positivity or forcing yourself to feel amazing about your body 24/7. Instead, it’s about developing a healthier relationship with your physical self. This means acknowledging both your strengths and your insecurities without letting either define your entire sense of self-worth.

Genuine body positivity means recognizing that your body is your home for life, and like any home, it deserves care, respect, and maintenance. Some days you might love your reflection, other days you might feel neutral, and sometimes you might struggle. All of these feelings are completely valid parts of the human experience.

Breaking Free from the Comparison Prison

One of the biggest obstacles to body acceptance is the constant comparison game we play with others. Social media has made this worse, creating highlight reels that make everyone else’s life and body seem perfect while we’re intimately aware of our own struggles and insecurities.

Everyone has moments of self-doubt, even those seemingly confident influencers and celebrities. That person you admire for their confidence has probably stood in front of a mirror feeling insecure about something. This isn’t meant to make you feel better about others’ struggles, but rather to remind you that the human experience includes body image challenges for almost everyone.

Breaking free from comparison requires intentional effort. Start by curating your social media feeds to include diverse body types and people who promote authentic self-acceptance rather than perfection. Unfollow accounts that make you feel worse about yourself, even if they’re not explicitly body-negative. Your mental health is more important than staying up-to-date with someone who consistently triggers your insecurities.

The Power of Body Neutrality

While body positivity encourages loving your body, body neutrality offers a different approach that many find more achievable. Body neutrality focuses on what your body can do rather than how it looks. Instead of trying to love your arms, you might appreciate that they allow you to hug the people you care about, carry groceries, or create art.

This shift in perspective can be incredibly liberating. When you’re having a difficult body image day, you don’t have to force yourself to feel positive. Instead, you can simply acknowledge your body’s functionality and move forward with your day. Your legs carried you where you needed to go. Your hands allowed you to write, type, or cook a meal. Your body is working for you, even when you don’t feel particularly fond of its appearance.

Body neutrality also acknowledges that some people have complicated relationships with their bodies due to trauma, illness, or disability. For these individuals, the pressure to “love” their body can feel invalidating or impossible. Neutrality offers a gentler path forward.

Understanding the Role of Medical Interventions

Part of authentic body positivity involves recognizing that people make different choices about their bodies, and that’s okay, too. Some individuals find peace through lifestyle changes, therapy, or mindfulness practices. Others might choose medical interventions to address concerns that significantly impact their quality of life.

For instance, some people who have experienced significant weight loss may struggle with excess skin that causes physical discomfort or limits their ability to enjoy activities they love. In such cases, procedures like arm lifts or other body contouring surgeries aren’t about chasing perfection, but about addressing genuine functional or comfort concerns. As one plastic surgeon notes, these procedures can help people who “feel self-conscious about loose or sagging skin” that affects their “confidence and limits wardrobe choices.”

The key is understanding the motivation behind any choice. Are you considering a change because you believe it will fundamentally alter your self-worth, or because it addresses a specific concern that impacts your daily life? Body positivity supports making informed decisions that genuinely improve your wellbeing, while also questioning choices motivated purely by external pressure or unrealistic standards.

Practical Steps Toward Body Acceptance

Developing a healthier relationship with your body is a process, not a destination. Here are some practical strategies that can help along the way:

• Practice mindful awareness: Notice when you have negative thoughts about your body, but don’t judge yourself for having them. Simply acknowledge the thought and try to redirect your attention to something your body is helping you accomplish in that moment.
• Develop a gratitude practice: Each day, identify one thing your body did that you’re grateful for. Maybe your legs helped you climb stairs, your hands created something beautiful, or your arms gave someone a comforting hug.
• Invest in clothes that fit and make you feel comfortable: Wearing clothes that fit your current body sends a message of self-respect and care. You deserve to dress your body comfortably, regardless of what size that happens to be.
• Move in ways that feel good: Exercise doesn’t have to be punishment or a way to “fix” your body. Find ways to move that bring you joy, whether that’s dancing, walking, swimming, or playing sports. Focus on how movement makes you feel rather than what it might change about your appearance.
• Surround yourself with positive influences: Spend time with people who appreciate you for who you are rather than what you look like. Seek out friends who engage in activities and conversations that don’t revolve around appearance or weight.

Addressing the Inner Critic

That voice in your head that points out every perceived flaw isn’t serving you, but it’s also not going to disappear overnight. Learning to work with your inner critic rather than against it can be more effective than trying to silence it completely.

When you notice negative self-talk, try responding with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask yourself: Where did this thought come from? Is it true, or is it based on unrealistic standards? What would you say to a friend who was talking about themselves this way?

Sometimes our harshest body criticism isn’t really about our bodies at all; it’s displaced anxiety about other areas of our lives. When you’re feeling particularly critical of your appearance, consider whether there are other stressors or concerns that might be contributing to these feelings.

Building Long-Term Body Confidence

True body confidence isn’t about thinking you’re perfect, but about developing resilience in the face of insecurity and maintaining perspective about your body’s role in your overall life. Confident people have bad body image days too, but they don’t let those days derail their entire sense of self-worth.

Building this kind of lasting confidence requires treating your body with consistent kindness. This means nourishing it with foods that make you feel energized, giving it adequate rest, and engaging in regular movement that you enjoy. It also means seeking medical care when needed and making decisions about your body based on your own values rather than external pressure.

Remember that your relationship with your body will evolve throughout your life. Your body will change due to age, life experiences, and circumstances beyond your control. The goal isn’t to maintain a static appearance but to maintain a caring, respectful relationship with your body through all its changes.

Moving Forward with Compassion

Body positivity isn’t a destination you reach where you never feel insecure again. It’s an ongoing practice of treating yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a good friend. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s perfectly normal.

What matters most is that you’re building a foundation of self-respect that doesn’t depend on meeting impossible standards. Your dress size, weight, or Instagram posts don’t determine your worth. Your value comes from who you are as a person; your kindness, creativity, humor, intelligence, and all the unique qualities that make you irreplaceably you.

As you continue on this journey, remember that every small step toward self-acceptance matters. Each time you choose self-compassion over self-criticism, you’re building stronger foundations for lasting confidence and genuine happiness. Your body is the vehicle that carries you through your life’s adventures—it deserves your respect, care, and appreciation, exactly as it is today.

The post Embracing Your Body: A Journey to Authentic Self- Love and Confidence appeared first on GirlSpring.

Choosing the Right Teeth Straightening Option for You

You might be familiar with traditional metal braces, which remain a trusted option. These are placed and adjusted by an orthodontist and are ideal for complex alignment issues. But there’s also growing interest in clear aligners, which are nearly invisible and often more comfortable. Some are managed entirely in-office, while others let you straighten teeth at home with remote monitoring.

If you’re looking for a flexible and subtle way to improve your smile, you may find straighter teeth with clear aligners appealing. These at-home systems usually involve taking dental impressions and receiving custom aligners in the mail. They’re best suited for mild to moderate alignment concerns. More complex dental problems usually need in-person supervision to ensure safe, effective movement.

Before deciding, think about your daily habits and your ability to follow treatment instructions carefully. Not all situations can be treated at home, so professional advice is always recommended before choosing a specific method.

Health Factors You Need to Consider

Your dental health needs to be stable before beginning any straightening treatment. If you have cavities, gum inflammation, or plaque buildup, those issues should be addressed first. Skipping this step can lead to more serious problems down the line.

Teenagers often ask if they can begin treatment right away, but their orthodontist might suggest waiting, depending on how their jaw is developing. Your bones and facial structure are still changing during adolescence, which can affect your treatment plan. Some providers recommend waiting until key growth stages are complete.

If you’re thinking about how to straighten teeth at home, it’s still important to stay on top of your dental hygiene. You’ll need to brush and floss regularly to avoid stains or decay, especially when wearing aligners that cover your teeth most of the day.

Poor hygiene during treatment can lead to gum problems or tooth discoloration. Make sure you’re prepared to keep up a strong routine before committing.

When Medical Conditions Play a Role

You might not think your general health affects your teeth, but it often does. Some conditions such as diabetes or bone disorders can impact how your teeth move. The same goes for certain medications that affect inflammation or bone growth.

If you’re taking any medication, share a full list with your dentist or orthodontist before beginning treatment. They may need to coordinate with your doctor to ensure your plan is safe and tailored to your needs.

It’s also important to share your full medical and family dental history. Even if you feel healthy, details about past issues can help your provider customize your plan.

If you check out this dentist in Little Neck NY, they’ll tell you that underlying health conditions can also affect how well you respond to orthodontic treatment. For example, autoimmune diseases or hormonal imbalances might slow down tooth movement or increase the risk of gum sensitivity. By understanding these factors early on, your dental team can monitor your progress more closely and adjust your treatment as needed to keep your mouth healthy throughout the process.

Helpful Questions to Ask Parents and Providers

You might feel nervous or unsure about how to talk to your parents or orthodontist. Having a list of questions can make those conversations easier and help you feel more in control.

Ask about which options suit your specific needs and what each treatment involves day-to-day. It’s also a good idea to find out what your insurance might cover and what out-of-pocket costs you should expect.

Treatment time varies for each person. Some people wear aligners for just a few months, while others may need a year or longer. Ask how long your treatment might take and whether anything could affect that timeline.

Don’t forget to ask about follow-up care. Wearing a retainer after treatment helps keep your teeth in their new positions. Knowing this ahead of time helps set realistic expectations.

If you’re exploring at-home aligners, ask whether a parent needs to supervise your treatment. Some companies require adult approval and involvement, especially for teens.

Preparing Mentally for the Journey Ahead

No matter what method you choose, straightening your teeth takes time and patience. You won’t see changes overnight, and some days may feel discouraging. That’s completely normal. Focusing on your long-term goal can help you stay motivated.

Appearance during treatment is another concern many teens have. Braces are more visible, but they’re commonly accepted among peers. Clear aligners are more subtle, so you might feel more confident wearing them in social settings.

One tip that works well is keeping a photo log of your progress. Seeing how far you’ve come can lift your spirits when the process feels slow. You could also mark small milestones on a calendar and celebrate when you reach them.

Handling Social Life and Smile Care Together

You may get questions or comments from friends, especially early in your treatment. Being prepared with calm, confident responses helps. Saying things like, “I’m working on a healthier smile” or “It’s a short-term effort for long-term results” shows you’re taking control.

In social situations, you’ll want to carry a few essentials. If you’re wearing aligners, keep a clean case with you for meals. Bring a travel toothbrush for quick cleanups after eating. These habits keep your aligners and teeth in good condition.

If you have traditional braces, consider carrying orthodontic wax for sore spots and a small mirror to check for stuck food. A few small items in your bag can make a big difference when you’re away from home.

Taking care of your smile doesn’t mean putting your life on hold. With a little planning, you can balance your treatment with school, activities, and time with friends.

Taking the Next Step with Confidence

Choosing how to straighten your teeth is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Focus on gathering information, asking questions, and being honest about your goals and habits. Talk to your parents and dental professionals to explore the best options for you.

With the right support and a treatment plan that fits your needs, you can feel confident about starting your smile journey. Whether you choose braces or aligners, what matters most is making a choice that supports both your health and happiness.

If you’re looking for a dental expert, you can check out this dentist in Decatur TX to get started with your dental health journey.

The post What to Ask Before Making Smile Changes as a Teen appeared first on GirlSpring.

Fortunately, staying healthy in a hectic school year doesn’t mean overhauling your life overnight. It’s about small, sustainable habits and mindset shifts that help you navigate a full schedule while still honoring your body and mind.

The Myth of “Not Enough Time”

“I just don’t have time” is one of the most common refrains among students—and understandably so. A packed class schedule, a job or internship, homework, and social life leave very few extra hours in the day. But time is often less about volume and more about intention. Scrolling social media can become ten minutes of stretching or deep breathing. Thirty minutes watching TV can be swapped with a walk or preparing a healthy meal.

One of the best ways to reclaim time is to use the time you already have more strategically. For example:

• Listen to audiobooks or podcasts while commuting or doing chores.
• Prep meals in bulk on weekends to save time and money during the week.
• Integrate movement into your daily routine—bike to class, take the stairs, or walk while calling a friend.

It’s not about being perfect every day. It’s about creating a rhythm that supports your health over the long haul.

Nourishment That Fuels, Not Fads That Fizzle

In the age of TikTok diet trends and “What I Eat in a Day” videos, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. But proper nutrition isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for a fashion influencer may not work for a working student trying to power through a 12-hour day.

The key is to think of food as fuel, not restriction. Balanced meals that include protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbs help decrease energy levels and cravings. Skipping meals or relying on energy drinks might offer a temporary boost, but usually leads to fatigue and poor concentration.

For students who are also working part-time jobs, time and mental bandwidth are limited. Many young women seek support that fits into their busy lives without adding more stress. Some find exploring evidence-based support systems, such as weight loss programs designed for working students that prioritize health over quick fixes, helpful. These programs offer professional insight into nutrition, metabolism, and energy support, making them a helpful resource when willpower alone isn’t enough.

Movement as Medicine

There’s a common misconception that staying active means hitting the gym for an hour every day. While that’s great if you have the time and enjoy it, movement doesn’t have to be formal or intense to be effective. In fact, short bursts of movement throughout the day—what some call “exercise snacks”—can be even more beneficial for mental clarity and physical health.

If you’re constantly hopping from classes to shifts to study groups, consider:

• Doing a 10-minute YouTube workout between lectures.
• Taking a walk during lunch breaks.
• Practicing yoga or stretching before bed can ease stress and help with sleep.

Movement should feel like a release, not another box to check. Choose something that brings you joy—whether that’s dancing in your dorm room or going for a bike ride.

Protecting Your Mental Health

Burnout is real, and it doesn’t just come from overwork—it comes from chronic stress, perfectionism, and lack of rest. When you’re constantly in “go” mode, your body and mind eventually demand rest, often in the form of emotional crashes, illness, or complete withdrawal from responsibilities.

That’s why protecting your mental health is just as important as eating well or staying active. Some practical ways to prioritize your emotional well-being include:

• Setting boundaries around your time, especially with toxic relationships or over-commitment.
• Journaling to process emotions, celebrate wins, and identify stressors.
• Seeking support when needed—whether that’s talking to a school counselor or reaching out to a mentor.

Rest is not a reward for productivity; it’s a requirement for wellness. Schedule rest like you would a class or a meeting. Make it non-negotiable.

Building Confidence on Your Terms

From social media filters to magazine covers, young women are constantly surrounded by messages about how they should look, dress, and present themselves. It’s easy for these outside pressures to chip away at even the strongest sense of self, especially during a busy school year when confidence is already being tested.

But real confidence doesn’t come from meeting someone else’s standard—it comes from making choices that reflect your goals, values, and vision of who you want to be. For some, that means embracing their natural look. For others, it might include exploring cosmetic procedures later in life to feel more in tune with their body and boost self-esteem.

Whether it’s a new haircut, a wardrobe update, or something more involved like an arm lift to remove excess skin and enhance your silhouette, these decisions should always be about empowerment—not pressure. The key is that you’re doing it for you. Confidence thrives when you’re in the driver’s seat of your image and identity.

Creating a Self-Care Toolkit

Instead of waiting until burnout strikes, create a toolkit of go-to habits, rituals, and resources that help you reset when life feels overwhelming. Your toolkit might include:

• A playlist of calming music
• A short meditation or breathing routine
• Favorite healthy snacks or tea
• A trusted friend or adult to talk to
• A list of small wins to remind you of your progress

This toolkit becomes your safety net—a gentle reminder that you have options and support even when things get hectic.

Balancing books and body is not about striving for a perfect routine. It’s about learning to listen to your body, make time for your needs, and build a life that supports you now and in the future. Health and academic success don’t have to be at odds. When approached with intention, they can actually fuel each other.

Every young woman deserves to thrive, not just survive. With the right mindset and a few sustainable strategies, you can take control of your well-being, even when life gets busy. Because taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s smart, strong, and absolutely necessary.

The post Balancing Books and Body: How Young Women Can Prioritize Health in a Hectic School Year appeared first on GirlSpring.

Boosting Physical Health

Exercise is key to a healthy body. Regular activity strengthens the heart, lungs, and muscles. It helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure later in life. For teens going through growth spurts and hormonal changes, staying active supports proper development and coordination. Even something as simple as walking or cycling can make a big difference. If you’re looking to take your fitness journey to the next level, consider seeking professional guidance from Health by Science, where personalized training programs can help you stay active and reach your health goals.

Mental Health Benefits

Teenage years can come with emotional ups and downs. Exercise releases endorphins—chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood boosters. Being active can ease anxiety, reduce stress, and help with symptoms of depression. It also improves sleep, which plays a huge role in mental well-being. For teens juggling schoolwork, friendships, and personal challenges, moving the body can be a powerful way to reset the mind.

Building Confidence and Social Skills

Joining a team or group fitness class isn’t just about the workout. It’s also about being part of something, setting goals, and working with others. Whether it’s football, dance, or martial arts, activities that involve teamwork and discipline help teens develop leadership skills and boost their confidence. Even non-competitive activities like hiking with friends or skating at the park can be great for bonding and self-esteem.

Improving Academic Performance

It might be surprising, but physical activity can help teens do better in school. Exercise improves concentration, memory, and cognitive function. It increases blood flow to the brain, which helps with problem-solving and focus. Taking a break to move during long study sessions can actually make learning more efficient and enjoyable.

Creating Lifelong Habits

The habits formed in your teenage years often carry into adulthood. If being active becomes a regular part of your routine early on, it’s more likely to stick later in life. Whether it’s dancing, swimming, playing basketball, or just going for walks, finding a way to enjoy movement is key. It’s not about being the best athlete—it’s about finding what makes you feel good and keeps you moving.

Tips for Staying Active

Staying active doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few easy ways to fit movement into your day:

• Walk or bike instead of getting a ride.
• Try a new sport or join a school club.
• Dance around your room to your favorite music.
• Set screen time limits and take breaks to stretch or move.
• Invite friends to go on outdoor adventures or play a game together.

Conclusion

Being active as a teen isn’t just good for your body—it’s essential for your mental health, confidence, academic success, and future well-being. The key is to find activities you enjoy and make them a part of your everyday life. Start small, stay consistent, and remember: every bit of movement counts.

The post The Importance of Staying Active as a Teen appeared first on GirlSpring.

“A Marketer’s Dream”

I’ve indulged in skincare and clothes over the past two years. I was what some can refer to as “a marketers dream.” Any cleanser or mini skirt I saw, I’d immediately rush to Amazon to find it. It didn’t take long for me to buy the product and ditch it once I saw the next best thing.

After some reflection, I realized I was buying the image that had been advertised. All of the things associated with these products had an appealing aesthetic. More significantly, I saw a  perception that I wanted to imitate.

The Aspiration to Assimilate

That revelation prompted me to wonder in what other ways I practiced this behavior, and if anyone else could relate. It was that thought that made me recall my childhood and the images around me.

At a young age, I struggled with body image. I reduced this struggle to going through puberty. I assumed it was a “normal part of growing up.” I found that although these struggles were consistent with a plethora of over individuals, it is NOT normal, just normalized. Wanting to imitate a certain look isn’t a desire I developed two years ago, it is a behavior that has been produced since I could see. 

The downfall of perception is the aspiration to assimilate. When I was eight, I wanted to be a fashion designer like True Jackson VP (one of my favorite shows), and that was inspiring. But when I was nine, I wanted the thigh gap of Tori Vega, and that was discouraging.

Body Image is a Product

From that point on, I could not help but notice the shape of my body compared to others. As I looked around me, there were always weight loss program commercials on TV, and my mom’s magazines only had one body type across the pages. The main characters on TV shows, my dolls, and the celebrity promotion of eating disorders and “perfection” created a depiction of what beauty was in my mind.

What I didn’t know is that this is intentional. If I felt like I had to be a certain size to be palatable, I’d also have to buy the new weight loss drink, a waist trainer, or an appetite suppressant. All of this just to appeal to the beauty standard. The business of body image allows marketers and advertisers to decide what beauty is. That way, they can sell young women on any trend or any product that promises flawlessness. 

Since then, I have changed the language of how I buy. Instead of asking myself, where can I purchase this item? Or do I measure up to the image advertised? I ask myself why am I seeing this advertisement?

What am I being sold on? Is this essential to my happiness? I encourage all young women to question or challenge the images we see. It is more important to consume reality than perfect little images.

Check out more body image articles by GirlSpring contributors!

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As someone who does not have the time, energy, or expertise to style my hair, this has been my holy grail. I purchased the Revlon Pro Collection Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer and have used it every day since. It gives the voluminous look of rollers while saving you the time and uncomfortable wear. I also like to use it when my hair is in need of a wash day, because it gives it some much needed volume!

Heatless Curl Set – 8/10

Another hair tool that saves time and energy, except this one also saves you the heat damage! Normal hot curling tools severely damage hair over time and are seriously inconvenient in the morning. Heatless curls, however, are efficient, can be slept in, and are thus easily accessible in satin.

I personally use the Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set, which includes two satin scrunchies to hold my hair in place, although I do use a claw clip to hold the rod in place when I initially begin wrapping my hair. The process does initially take a while to master, but after a while becomes a great alternative!

Shaving Oil – 7.5/10

In a world where it feels like the most efficient shaving tools are made for men, a good women’s shaving product is worth talking about. After purchasing shaving oil for the first time, I can definitely say I do not see myself ever going back to any other method.

I spontaneously purchased the Tree Hut Moisturizing Shave Oil while it was on sale; I avoid paying full price in case it was not effective, but now I have no problem continuing to purchase it, because this is definitely worth it! (Keep in mind that body hair is normal and removing it is completely optional, so do not feel pressured to do so!)

Owala Water Bottle – 10/10

Even though it’s simple, this water bottle has possibly been one of my favorite purchases of all time. Featuring a lid that allows you to either drink out of a straw or turn it up to drink it, and a design that fits into a cup holder, it ensures that you enjoy the most convenient and efficient water drinking experience.

The double lock allows you not to worry about it spilling, plus, it doubles as a handle which makes it easy to carry around no matter what else you have in your hands. 

P.S. the variety of color combinations and only add to the fun!

Click here to find more beauty products you can find for cheap!

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