COLLEGE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
First Semester, A.Y. 2023-2024
MODULE 6: Physical Aspect of the Self
Course Title: Understanding the Self
Course Code: GE 1
Name: __________________________________________________________
Course and Year: _________________________________________________
Contact Number/Email Address: _____________________________________
Date and Time Allotment: __________________________________________
Introduction
Our face represents most of our physical self. It provides other people an impression about who we are and
what we are. Our facial features give initial clues about our attitudes and the cosmetics put onto our faces may
give hints about our economic status in life. We give too much attention to our faces than any other part of our
body from the time we wake up to the moment before we sleep. Our face is the primary part of our body that
we protect in times of danger. We do not want any scars inflicted on any part of our face and admittedly, many of
us are willing to spend money to make it pleasing to the other people.
We maintain a face value because we consider our face as our initial asset. Before other people can discover our
true attitude and capabilities, they first rely on what they can see physically. The way we take care of ourselves
especially our faces, represents the kind of personality we have. It is no wonder that people spend significant
amounts of money just to make themselves beautiful.
I. Objectives
At the end of the end of this module, students should be able to:
1. Define the physical aspect of self.
2. Discuss how cultural traditions can shape body image
3. Appraise a movie about physical self and beauty.
II. Lectures
The Self as the Body
The physical self refers to the body. It is the tangible aspect of the person that can be directly observed and
examined (Singh, 2017). It is defined by physical characteristics that are visible. These characteristics are the
defining traits and features of the body. Sex, height, weight, complexion and facial features are among the
common physical features identified when one asked to describe another person. Gender is also used to describe
one’s identity as it is sometimes a guiding cue to describe one’s physical appearance.
The physical aspect of the self does not include internal characteristics that are internal to the self-such
as kindness, generosity, loyalty, obedience, and any other values that is present to the individual.
How Cultural Traditions Can Shape Body Image
Our body image, which includes our perception of ourselves and our own body and the way we feel
about our body, is influenced by a variety of factors. Many aspects contribute to body image, including the
environment in which we are immersed in as well as our biological makeup and genetic predisposition.
Understanding how each of these areas impact how we feel about our body is important to understanding how
we can create and build a positive body image.
Cultural Traditions Can Help or Hurt
The culture in which we are surrounded by has a significant impact on how we feel about ourselves and
the manner in which we think about our body. Many cultural traditions also contribute to body image and can
influence either negative or positive body image and self-esteem.
Depending on the culture and overall emphasis of traditions involved, a person may find their
surroundings either conducive to or resistant to the building of a healthy body image and self-esteem.
The Impact of Western Culture
The Western culture in general, for example, is one that tends to hyper-focus on dieting and body
appearance. Digitally retouched photos are the norm in which our society is saturated in, and this mentality can
negatively influence an individual’s body image.
Other cultures that celebrate and uphold a person’s body and whose traditions uphold what a person is capable
of doing rather than their appearance may more effectively support the building of a positive body image.
Culture Is Just One Factor
While culture alone is not responsible for a poor or negative body image, the influence and potential in
which it can impact how a person feels about themselves and their body are substantial. Being aware of your
surroundings and understanding how culture and traditions may affect and impact how you think and feel about
your body can be helpful, especially in a conscious effort to build a positive body image and increase self-esteem.
Understanding each of the components that contribute to your body image is an important step towards making
a difference in how you see and feel about yourself.
Achieving Physical Well-being
To achieve and maintain a good and balanced physical well-being, consider the following tips:
1.) Eat Healthy
2.) Maintain a healthy lifestyle
3.) Follow proper hygiene
4.) Engage in daily exercise
5.) Take vitamins and drink fruit juices
6.) Avoid stress
7.) Spend less time in front of computers and gadgets
8.) Visit your physician for check-ups and health monitoring
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