Mental and Emotional Benefits of Corsets:

1. Corsets are not only associated with becoming ever-smaller  — many clinically underweight women have been able to combat their eating disorders and learn to celebrate their bodies and embrace their curves (figuratively and literally) by wearing a corset.  Since their corset adds proprioception and helps increase body awareness, it can be a tool to counter dysmorphia.

2. Corsets can boost the self-image of those with low self esteem, and encourage a greater notion of self-worth by affecting the posture and not allowing the wearer to “apologize for their existence” (in the words of Sarah Chrisman) – this can apply to those with poor body image, those who have been emotionally abused and made to feel “less than”, or otherwise.

3. Corsets are worn by many to ward off depression, panic attacks or generalized anxiety – the corset provides an element of Deep Pressure Therapy and feels like a secure, constant hug, which is naturally comforting and grounding to many people (the way that being swaddled is comforting to a child). Pressure on the abdomen can also somewhat negate the “butterfly in stomach” and nausea symptoms associated with anxiety.

4. Corsets can act as a coat of armor and a mode of “physical” therapy for those who suffer from PTSD. People who have been physically or sexually abused and tend to eschew human contact may feel safer by wearing a corset, as it provides a “barrier” between themselves and the outside world (the corset is a rigid garment with steel and often many layers of fabric). This makes it difficult to feel physical contact of anyone “outside” the corset, even accidental touch (for instance bumping into someone on public transit). Yet the corset still provides the wearer the feeling of a secure hug on their own terms, until they are ready to accept touch from other people.

5. Corsets can help those with ADHD to feel more grounded and present, as the constant physical sensation of corset around them can help keep their mind focused in the present. Deep pressure can also soothe the agitation and hypersensitivity related to the feeling of being pulled in a thousand directions at once. This has helped some wearers like Hazel and Jen to improve their concentration and productivity.

6. The rigidity and structure of a corset can translate to help some wearers feel as though there is more structure in their lives. For those who feel lost or out of control of their lives, the corset’s stability has helped them to feel more in control and less vulnerable to the unpredictable stresses of daily life. In extreme situations, some individuals like Ana, Andrea, and Anja have noted that wearing corsets have helped them to stop their cycle of self-harm.

7. Corsets can also help one through transitional periods in their lives. Corsets can reduce body dysphoria in trans and gender fluid wearers and can also help one make peace with aging and ease the process of menopause

8. For those interested in metaphysics, some individuals even believe that the compression from the corset over the abdomen and solar plexus can activate the Manipura chakra which is said to be tied to interpersonal relationships and self-esteem. One Reiki practitioner (Rebecca) says that the steels of her corset may act as conductors to help amplify the energy in her healing sessions.