The Dancer’s Journey Through Body Image and the Influence of Society
Sharna Burgess recently spoke candidly about her battles with body image over the years, revealing that these struggles almost led her to undergo cosmetic surgery. She expressed that the only reason she decided against getting breast augmentation in her 20s was after witnessing someone with a similar muscular physique undergo the procedure, which resulted in an appearance she did not desire. Burgess, 38, shared these insights during an episode of the “Oldish” podcast, which she co-hosts with her fiancé, Brian Austin Green.
Burgess explained that her perception of wanting larger breasts was influenced by societal standards of femininity and attractiveness. She also opened up about how her mother’s self-critical language regarding her own body had a lasting impact on Burgess’s self-image. She recalled her mother’s consistent negative self-talk and how it left an imprint on her, leading her to adopt a similar negative perspective about her own body.
Additionally, Burgess mentioned that she contemplated undergoing liposuction to achieve a thigh gap, a feature she noticed others had but was not natural to her body structure. She emphasized that these feelings existed even before the rise of social media, attributing her mother’s self-deprecating language as a significant influence during that time.
Highlighting the importance of positive body language, especially around children, Burgess discussed the need to change the narrative. She and Green are parents to a 16-month-old son named Zane. Green also has other children from previous relationships. Burgess stressed the significance of using uplifting language when discussing body changes and transformations, both for the benefit of the children and for oneself.
Burgess has been transparent about her postpartum body in the past. She shared her experiences on Instagram, discussing the physical changes she underwent after giving birth to Zane in June 2022. Emphasizing the marvel of the female body and the postpartum journey, she encouraged patience and self-love.
Burgess expressed that she initially believed she would feel pressured regarding her postpartum body, especially given her career as a dancer. However, she found that she did not place any undue pressure on herself, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and appreciation.