Growing up a girl can be hard. Our bodies feel complicated to us as we grow and stretch into the person we are destined to be. The stares from men, the impertinent comments we receive from others, the judgmental eyes that make us feel insignificant and small. We start to almost share a sense of disdain for our bodies, almost as if our bodies aren’t enough, no matter the efforts we execute in hopes we will someday achieve that sense of relief and acceptance we are searching for. Many of us struggle with our self-image and worth, and the media can truly make us feel as though the efforts we put into ourselves are never enough. It’s never enough to satisfy the itch we have to change our appearance to fit the arbitrary and nearly impervious standards that remain unachievable. It’s so easy for us to fall into the inextricable web of insecurities as we are more often likely to be comparing ourselves rather than embracing the unique attributes that make us distinctive and characterize us for who we truly are. Although it’s difficult for many young girls now to feel confident in their own skin with the new standards that permeate social media– it is imperative that we remind younger generations to welcome their special qualities. “This Body” by Ellena Li is a beautifully written song that serves as our reminder to embrace ourselves. A lot of us can fall into false perceptions depicted by media outlets, however, Ellena was able to create such a beautiful piece of music that stands out from the rest of the music released nowadays. It’s a sound so delicate and harmonious– suitable for the struggles many people face. The lyrics themselves carry vehemency that so talentedly describes the whirlwind of emotive sentiments a plethora of us face. With lyrics like “I feel small but so are stars from a distance”, and, one that truly claws at hearts, “Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm”. “This Body” is so phenomenally crafted, and will certainly conciliate the hearts of those with a painful ache that laments in silence.
The sound of the soft guitar is enough to resonate deep within our hearts, pulling us into this melancholic and reflective state as the lyrics begin to settle in, encouraging forlorn emotions. Ellena’s voice acts as yet another mellifluous instrument that further tells a story of self-acceptance and the hardships young women face in this world of deception and judgment. Again, I admire this song and Ellena’s courage to sing about such a delicate topic that haunts most people of the younger generation. I can relate to this song in so many aspects, and it offers me a sense of comfort to know that I’m not the only person who deals with hardships that involve self-acceptance. Despite the song carrying such a sad tune, it’s such an empowering song dedicated to all people who need a reminder or to those who are having a moment of weakness and need something to motivate and console their sentiments.
Ellena Li, the talented artist behind such a phenomenal song, is a Canadian musician, who is just 14 years old! Despite her young age, Ellena has countless awards and recognitions that illustrate the pure dedication she has for music and creating sounds that resonate with the hearts of her listeners, looking to create more songs that include messages that touch up on body positivity, mental health, and self-empowerment. Currently, Ellena has organized charity concerts where she supports campaigns that mean something to her. Utilizing her musical talents for something inspirational which can only further encourage people to use their voices for good. Ellena hopes to inspire, connect, and build a community around her works of charity and the encouraging messages she has embedded in the lyrics of her music. She hopes to gain more recognition and opportunities throughout her campaign so that she may continue to perform and create collaborations that will further prompt her journey as a musician. I cannot wait to hear more of Ellena’s music and watch as her career progresses! To keep up with Ellena, follow her socials!
Written By Rosalyn Sanchez
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