As someone who has struggled with body positivity their entire life, I can undoubtedly say that self love is hard as hell. My journey is far from over, but I thought I’d share a few of the things I’ve learned so far.
Keep the Instabaddies to a minimum on your feed.
They have hundreds of thousands of followers, some even a million, and their uploads are holstered up by even more likes and comments. Instagrammers like Yaris Sanchez, Rosa Acosta, and India Love are perfect examples of the quintessential IG Baddie. Following a few of them isn’t bad, the problem begins when you start following too many. Their photos are carefully crafted to display perfection – makeup slayed, hair slayed, body slayed, entire life slayed. It would only be natural to make comparisons and think less of yourself if the majority of images on your feed are of people who get their hair and makeup done professionally every day and have had plastic surgery. Do yourself a favor and unplug a little.
This is an add on from the first tip, follow people who look like you.
Whether it be small or large every site has a community of body positive users, especially Instagram #Bodyposi. In general, try to follow others who look like you, but be open. The purpose of this is to see yourself from the other side. Seeing someone who looks a lot like you, loving and appreciating their body is inspiring. Scrolling through your feed won’t be a painful jealous process, but instead, one that is positive and realistic. Before you know it, you’ll be the one posting the pictures.
See yourself in the nude more often.
Whether it be when you’re getting dressed or right after a long shower, take the time to truly look at yourself. Graze your hands over your stretch marks, touch your curves, hug yourself. Show your body some love. Appreciate that it has taken care of you and has gotten you through so many tough times.
