Many people carry the quiet belief that their negative body image will never improve — especially after years of struggle. In this final post of the Body Image Myths series, Jon gently challenges the idea that healing has a finish line. Instead, he reframes progress as a changing relationship with your body: one where shame has less power, self-trust grows, and life continues even on hard days. This piece offers reassurance, perspective, and hope — reminding readers that growth is ongoing, imperfect, and deeply meaningful.

Many people believe mental health and physical health operate independently — but when it comes to body image, they are deeply intertwined. In this post, Jon explores how body shame can impact anxiety, mood, motivation, and self-worth, and how mental health struggles can make caring for the body feel harder. Drawing from research and real-life coaching experience, he explains why healing isn’t about choosing one over the other, but supporting the whole person. Small, compassionate changes in one area can create meaningful shifts in both mind and body.

Many people believe that body confidence means feeling secure all the time — but that’s not the reality for any of us. In this post, Jon breaks down the myth of “perfect confidence,” explaining why insecurity is a normal part of being human and how true body confidence comes from showing up for your life even when those thoughts appear. Through practical examples and compassionate guidance, he explores what real confidence looks like: wearing what you love, accepting compliments, choosing connection, and treating your body with respect. This is a grounded, human approach to body image — one that honors growth, not perfection.

In this post, Jon breaks down one of the most common and harmful beliefs many queer men carry about their bodies—the idea that our worth is tied to measurements, fantasies, or sexual preferences. He explores how porn, social media, and even parts of the bear community reinforce narrow ideals, leaving many people feeling inadequate or unseen. Jon reminds us that our value doesn’t come from our belly size, chest, ass, or dick—it comes from inhabiting our bodies with honesty, care, and pride. Your body has worth simply because it’s yours.

This post explores the myth that “if you don’t fit into the gay scene, it’s your body’s fault,” and reframes the issue as a cultural problem — not a personal one. Jon breaks down how narrow beauty standards, labels, and community hierarchies create exclusion, even within spaces meant to be more accepting. He reminds us that belonging has nothing to do with body type, and that our worth is not defined by how well we fit into someone else’s idea of “the scene.” The problem isn't your body — it’s the standards. And it’s time to challenge them.

This lighthearted post explores the myth that “only fat people have a belly,” and reminds us that every human — regardless of size, shape, or fitness level — has one. Jon breaks down why belly size says nothing about worth or capability, celebrates the beauty of diverse bodies, and shares why he created the Belly Club: to offer a space where people can move, play, and embrace their bodies with joy instead of shame. It’s a reminder that softness is normal, movement is for everyone, and bellies — in all forms — are simply human.

Although body image issues are often seen as a “women’s problem,” men — including gay, bi, and trans men — are deeply affected too. In this post, Jon unpacks the harmful misconception that only women struggle with body dissatisfaction, shares powerful stats about the pressures men face in queer spaces, and explores how societal beauty standards contribute to anxiety and disordered eating. Ready to challenge stereotypes and reclaim peace with your body? This conversation is for you.

Accepting your body doesn’t mean giving up on your health — it simply means acknowledging where you are without shame or self-punishment. True acceptance creates clarity, reduces resistance, and helps you make kinder, more sustainable choices for your wellbeing. When you stop fighting your body, you free up energy to actually care for it. Acceptance isn’t resignation; it’s the foundation for meaningful, lasting change.

We’ve all heard it — “losing weight will make you happier.” But research tells a different story. Studies show that people who lose weight aren’t necessarily happier or more satisfied with life. The truth is, happiness doesn’t come from shrinking your body — it comes from expanding your self-acceptance. You don’t have to love everything about yourself to treat your body with kindness and care.

Let’s bust a big myth: that you have to love your body every single day to be body positive.

That’s not how it works — and honestly, that idea just sets us up to feel like we’re failing.
Body positivity isn’t about perfect, 24/7 love. It’s about respect, care, and compassion, even on the tough days.

Mindfulness while traveling, like our bear body-positive food tour in New Orleans.

Learn how to enjoy your travel more - whether it’s a bear week or retreat, a gay cruise, or a hiking trip. Bring more mindfulness into the experience.

My tips for how to have the most meaningful travel experiences possible.

Male body positivity coach gives tips for feeling comfortable in your body.

Gay bear men and body-positive queers swimming during Camp Bear Hug

Learn about the benefits of cuddling.

How to use body acceptance to stop hating photos of yourself.