In Her Own Terms – A Narrative Of Women, Health, And Societal Challenge
- Brainz Magazine
- Dec 24, 2023
- 3 min read
Written by: Dr. Khushali Trivedi, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Throughout history, women have borne the weight of societal norms, often at the expense of their health. The narrative of women glorifying their suffering has persisted, perpetuating the idea that enduring pain is a testament to strength. However, it is time to redefine strength and acknowledge that true resilience lies in taking a stand for oneself and creating personal norms that prioritize mental and physical well-being. In a world that praises the silent suffering of women as a measure of strength, it's time to rewrite the script. The true power of women lies not in enduring pain but in challenging societal norms to forge a path where well-being is the ultimate marker of strength and resilience.
Challenging the culture of suffering
For generations, women have been conditioned to endure silently, with societal expectations dictating that strength is synonymous with enduring hardship. This culture of suffering has led to countless women neglecting their health for the sake of fitting into predetermined norms. It is crucial to challenge this narrative and encourage a shift towards a culture that values self-care over self-sacrifice.
Empowering women to seek help
The tendency to praise a woman for persevering through pain instead of offering help perpetuates a harmful cycle. True strength lies in recognizing when assistance is needed and having the courage to seek help. Encouraging open conversations about health, both physical and mental, creates a supportive environment where women feel empowered to prioritize their well-being.
Creating personal norms
Rather than conforming to societal norms that may not align with individual needs, women should be encouraged to create their own norms. This involves defining success, happiness, and strength on their terms, breaking free from the constraints imposed by external expectations. Embracing individuality fosters a sense of empowerment and autonomy over one's life.
Mental health matters
The societal expectation for women to juggle multiple roles often takes a toll on mental health. Breaking free from the glorification of suffering involves recognizing the importance of mental well-being. This may include setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and seeking professional support when needed. Prioritizing mental health is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of strength and self-awareness.
Collective empowerment
The journey towards redefining strength is a collective effort. Women supporting each other in embracing their uniqueness and challenging societal norms fosters a community where individual well-being is prioritized. By collectively advocating for change, women can contribute to reshaping the narrative around strength and resilience.
The role of education
Educating society about the consequences of perpetuating harmful norms is essential. Promoting awareness about the importance of individualized well-being and the need to break free from outdated expectations can pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive future.
Embracing vulnerability
Strength is not the absence of vulnerability but the ability to embrace it. Encouraging women to express their struggles and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment creates a culture that values authenticity and fosters genuine connections. This openness contributes to mental and being a strong woman is about more than enduring suffering; it is about courageously redefining the narrative. By challenging societal norms, embracing individuality, and prioritizing mental and physical health, women can lead the way towards a future where strength is measured by authenticity, self-care, and the ability to stand up for oneself. It is time to empower women to create their own norms and rewrite the story of strength in a way that honors their well-being above all else.
Dr. Khushali Trivedi, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Khushali Trivedi holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in women's health at Texas Women's University. She is a co-founder at VediKh Care, a non-profit organization that strives to promote healthcare equality. Dr. Trivedi is a passionate women's health activist who is dedicated to ending period poverty and improving the overall quality of life for women. Her research interests include studying postpartum depression, pelvic pain, and other critical women's health issues. By investigating and addressing these challenges, Dr. Trivedi aims to contribute to a better understanding of how to promote women's health and well-being.
