Body image and self-esteem are connected, but they aren't the same thing.

Body image is how we feel about what we see in the mirror. Self-esteem is how we feel about ourselves as a person, how much we trust ourselves, how capable we believe we are, and the story we tell ourselves about who we are. I believe our self-esteem drives our body image.

I think one of the biggest reasons body image changes over time is because life changes over time.

Different experiences affect each of us in different ways, and what impacts one person may not impact another. That's why it's so important to stay connected to who you actually are instead of who you think you should be or who you believe other people want you to be.

When we think about body image, it's easy to assume it begins when we look in the mirror. I don't believe that's where it starts.

When people hear the phrase "body image," they often think it's only about appearance. While appearance is certainly part of it, I believe body image goes much deeper.

When I think about body image, I think it's how we see ourselves, both on the inside and the outside. It's made up of our thoughts, feelings, and emotions about ourselves.

Body image has always been part of the health conversation but the questions people are asking are beginning to change. Instead of focusing only on appearance, more people are exploring confidence, self-perception, identity and the ongoing thoughts that shape how they see themselves.

Every month, I'll look at the biggest searches, the conversations gaining momentum, and the topics that deserve more attention. My goal isn't simply to report what's being discussed. It's to help you better understand how these conversations are evolving through the Your Level Fitness inside/out perspective.