Aiden Ryley
Introduction: The highlight Reel Illusion
We live in a world where scrolling is second nature. Platform’s including Instagram, TikTok and Facebook shape how we view ourselves without even recognising it!
‘Perfect Lighting’ ‘Perfect Angles’ ‘Perfect Bodies’. But this isn’t the reality that we consume, and when we compare ourselves every day to somebody else’s online identity, it can quickly and quietly begin to shape how we feel about our bodies.
How does social media shape body image?
Firstly, body image refers to how we perceive, think and feel about our physical appearance and social media can impact this in many ways;
Constant Comparison: Psychologically, we are wired for comparing ourselves to others, and according to the social comparison theory we evaluate ourselves by measuring against others. If our feeds are full of highly edited, filtered or ‘exceptional’ bodies it creates an unrealistic standard.
Algorithm reinforcement: Anytime you interact with fitness, beauty or any appearance-based content, what happens? The algorithm gives you more of it resulting into a constant stream of the idea that you need to change your body to match your algorithm.
Protecting your wellbeing
So, how can we change your social media algorithm to create a positive reinforcement for your body image?
Curate your feed: Unfollowing accounts that trigger comparison is a great start. But we also want to help increase body positivity, so following accounts that promote their bodies in a neutral, health and positive is key. Your environment shapes your mindset, even digitally!
Digital Awareness: Having an awareness of your feelings before scrolling automatically reduces negative thinking. You’re wondering, how do I do this? Here’s a few questions to ask yourself before you start scrolling on any platform;
✓ How do I feel right now?
✓ Am I Inspired or insecure?
✓ Am I consuming or comparing?Shifting focus from your appearance: Shifting your focus to function over appearance can transform your body image from aesthetic comparisons to appreciation. Shift your focus from:
‘How does my body look?’ to ‘What does my body allow me to do?’
Strength. Movement. Health. Performance. Energy.
Final Thoughts
Social media is a big world but isn’t necessarily harmful if used in a positive way.
Remember…
You are not meant to look like everyone else on your social media feed
You are meant to look like YOU
You are more than an image on a screen