As we transition back to in-person work and social interactions, the cozy comfort of sweatpants and oversized shirts that defined our pandemic style is fading away. It’s a harsh reality check to put on actual pants and confront what some call the “quarantine 15.” But let’s be real, we’ve all endured a global pandemic and deserve some credit — and perhaps even some brownies — for simply making it through.
While we should celebrate our resilience during these challenging times, there will always be those who feel compelled to comment on our appearance, particularly regarding weight gain. There are so many more significant issues at play than the quarantine 15 (or 20, or 30). Seriously, weight should not even be part of this conversation. Yet, here I am addressing this nonsense.
The truth is, those who make these remarks are often influenced by the diet industry, which preys on our insecurities, especially after such a tumultuous global event. It’s nearly impossible to avoid the barrage of weight loss ads on TV, social media, and even the radio. I’m not buying into it.
Let’s Dismiss the Idea of the “Quarantine 15”
In the past, remarks about my body would leave me in tears (behind closed doors, of course). However, this past year has sparked a different reaction: rage. Why do you feel entitled to comment on my body? When I first heard the term “quarantine 15,” I was furious. Seriously, folks, we were just a few months into a pandemic, and suddenly weight gain was the big issue?
Focusing on physical appearance during a time when we were all just trying to survive is the epitome of toxic diet culture. Who cares about weight when we were grappling with a global crisis? It’s ludicrous.
I understand that many feel a lack of control in their lives right now, which is why diet culture thrives. Instead of promoting mindfulness and self-acceptance, they exploit insecurities. We’ve been bombarded with messages about preparing for swimsuit season or following meal plans in order to receive compliments. I don’t care if such comments are meant to motivate; the bottom line is that my body is no one else’s business, and no commentary is necessary.
Who Actually Asked You?
Recently, someone said to me, “Is everything okay? It seems like you don’t care, like you’ve just let yourself go.” While this might seem like a caring concern, I call it nonsense. First of all, did I ask for your opinion about my appearance? No, I did not. So why do you feel the need to share it?
If you’re genuinely concerned about my well-being, just ask the straightforward question: “Are you okay?” There are countless ways to inquire about my health without referencing my weight. This kind of question feels loaded for me, given my history with body image and disordered eating. But why can’t we normalize the idea of not commenting on others’ bodies? Our society tends to equate worth with physical appearance, and breaking that habit is easier said than done.
Let’s remove the phrase “quarantine 15” from our vocabularies, along with the freshman 15, baby weight, and more. If someone dares to question why you’ve let yourself go, just remind them of the simplest, most effective way to lose weight: cut them out of your life.
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Summary
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This article addresses the societal pressure surrounding body image, particularly in the context of the pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of focusing on more significant issues rather than weight. It encourages readers to dismiss unsolicited comments about their appearance and advocate for body positivity.
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