First of all, I want to commend you for being in recovery from anorexia. Taking steps towards recovery is a brave and important decision, and I'm glad to hear that you are on that path.
It's not uncommon for individuals in recovery from an eating disorder to experience feelings of body image dissatisfaction or comparison when exposed to media, including anime, which often portrays characters with unrealistic and idealized body proportions. Many people, regardless of whether they have an eating disorder or not, can feel insecure or dissatisfied when comparing themselves to the often exaggerated bodies depicted in media.
Here are some suggestions to help you cope with these feelings while enjoying anime:
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself during this process. Remember that recovery is a journey, and it's normal to have ups and downs along the way. Remind yourself that your worth is not determined by your appearance.
Limit exposure to triggering content: If certain anime or media content triggers negative feelings or body comparisons, consider taking a break from them or choosing anime with a more diverse range of body types.
Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your feelings. Having someone to confide in can be comforting and can provide a different perspective.
Focus on positive aspects of anime: Enjoy the storytelling, character development, and artistic aspects of anime rather than solely focusing on the appearance of the characters.
Challenge unrealistic portrayals: Remember that the characters in anime are fictional and often drawn in ways that are not reflective of real-life bodies. Challenge these unrealistic portrayals and recognize that diversity in body shapes and sizes is natural and beautiful.
Engage in body-positive activities: Surround yourself with body-positive messages, whether it's through books, online communities, or self-affirmations. Engaging in activities that celebrate body diversity and self-acceptance can be empowering.
Celebrate your progress: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you've made in your recovery. Every step forward is a significant achievement, and you deserve to acknowledge your efforts.
Remember that it's okay to have challenging moments in recovery, and seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in eating disorders and body image issues can provide additional support and guidance.
Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate self-love and acceptance. Embrace your uniqueness and focus on your well-being, both physically and emotionally. Recovery is about healing your relationship with yourself and learning to appreciate and care for your body in a healthy way.