Celebrate You: Things Women Should Never Apologize For

Life teaches us to embrace our natural selves, even when others overlook or misunderstand us. For modern women, breaking free from societal prejudices and norms can be challenging. Many aspects of life, psychology, or personal views can evoke feelings of shame, which can be as confining as societal dictates. Learning to understand and accept your body and sincere desires is a step towards physical and moral freedom. Here are four things that women should never feel ashamed of, helping you reconsider your views on life and shed unnecessary stereotypes.

Menstruation: A Natural Process

For reasons unknown, evolution has addressed membranes, tails, and even the third eyelid, with some scientists suggesting it’s currently shaping our hands and heads. However, menstruation remains unchanged. It’s a monthly occurrence for women, lasting about 12 weeks a year for 40-50 years. Menstruation typically starts between ages 11-16 and ends between 45-65.

One significant issue women face during menstruation is cultural stigma. In many societies, it’s taboo to discuss menstrual cramps openly, even with employers or in personal conversations. This stigma stems from outdated notions of “dirtiness.” In a society that promotes body positivity, such beliefs should be obsolete. You know your body best, so allow it to undergo natural processes without shame.

In America, menstrual cramps are recognized as a valid reason for taking a day off. Referring to “female ailments” is natural and acceptable. Studies even suggest that men experience similar hormonal fluctuations, though less noticeably.

Body Shape: Embrace Your Uniqueness

Modern women lead fast-paced lives, and maintaining health and beauty is a necessity, not just a trend. The desire to appear slimmer should be a thing of the past. Today, active women prioritize health and natural beauty. The movement to popularize diverse beauty standards aims to cultivate a healthy body image in girls and women. Women are no longer obligated to look like cover models, as the world now celebrates diversity, making it irrational to feel ashamed of one’s body.

Another issue fueling high body standards is the stereotype of sexuality. While men may appreciate certain body types, in the 21st century, where women run for president and excel in military aviation, it’s time to dismantle the fetishization of women’s bodies. To accept your body, understand its functions and responses to changes. This way, you can feel natural even if you gain a few extra pounds.

Sexual Preferences: Your Needs Matter

Sexual preferences are a natural part of your body’s needs. Understanding what you desire from sex and erotic experiences can enhance your pleasure. Sex is no longer solely for reproduction. Remember, anything pleasant and harmless to you and your partner, with mutual consent, is natural and good.

If your partner is intimidated by your sexual inventiveness, they may not be the right partner for you, or they may need time to understand your desires. Discussing sex is normal if both parties are comfortable with the conversation, just as it’s okay to keep it private.

Attitude Towards Marriage and Children: Your Choice

Not all modern women aspire to marry and have children immediately, as self-realization is equally important. Many women choose not to have children due to career goals or the physical and psychological challenges of childbirth. The decision to have children or marry is personal. Modern couples successfully coexist in civil marriages without formal ties. If you’re not ready for these steps, don’t sacrifice your feelings for your partner or feel ashamed of your worldview.

Conversely, some women may feel ashamed of wanting many children and being a housewife. Ultimately, it’s about your personal desires. No one can make you happy if you don’t understand what happiness means to you. Many women successfully raise large families while maintaining their mobility and sexuality.

For further reading on self-acceptance and breaking stereotypes, you can visit Psychology Today, a reputable source for psychological insights and advice.