How Body Positivity Shapes Our Social Media Feeds

Social media is one of the most powerful influences on how we see ourselves. Every time we scroll through our feeds, we encounter images, messages, and cultural narratives that shape our perception of beauty and self-worth. While social media has long been criticized for promoting unrealistic beauty standards, the rise of body positivity has begun to challenge and transform these ideals.

Body positivity has reshaped the way we experience social media, influencing the content we see and the conversations we have. The movement promotes self-acceptance and challenges unrealistic beauty standards, making digital spaces more inclusive and supportive.

The Rise of Body Positivity on Social Media

While the body positivity movement dates back to the 1960s, social media has given it new momentum. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become spaces where people share messages of self-love and acceptance. Hashtags like #BodyPositivity, #SelfLove, and #AllBodiesAreGoodBodies have brought millions together, creating online communities centered on embracing all body types.

Public figures and influencers have helped shape this movement. Lizzo, for example, uses her platform to challenge beauty norms and promote self-acceptance. Her emphasis on confidence and body neutrality encourages people to focus on their well-being rather than appearance.

Changing the Content on Social Media Feeds

Body positivity has led to more diverse content on social media. Users now see a wider range of body types, skin tones, and representations that go beyond traditional beauty standards. Brands and advertisers have also embraced this shift. Campaigns like Dove’s “Real Beauty” and Aerie’s “AerieReal” highlight real people without retouching, pushing back against unrealistic portrayals in media.

This shift in content helps create a more balanced view of beauty. Instead of being flooded with edited and idealized images, users are exposed to authentic and diverse representations. This change makes social media a space where more people feel seen and valued.

The Psychological Impact of Body-Positive Content

Research suggests that engaging with body-positive content can improve self-esteem and body satisfaction. A 2022 study found that people who regularly viewed this type of content reported feeling better about their bodies. Another study in 2024 showed that consuming body-positive media reduced social comparisons, which can lead to anxiety and depression.

Consistently seeing a variety of body shapes and sizes represented online can help reshape internalized beauty standards. People exposed to body-positive content may develop a more accepting attitude toward their own appearances, reducing the need for unhealthy dieting, excessive exercise, or other harmful behaviors.

Additionally, body-positive content can serve as a counterbalance to the unrealistic portrayals often found on social media. Seeing unfiltered and unedited images can help individuals distinguish between what is real and what is artificially enhanced. This awareness can contribute to better mental well-being and reduced pressure to conform to narrow beauty ideals.

However, social media still presents challenges. Even within the body positivity movement, certain body types are featured more than others, sometimes leaving people out of the conversation. There is also the risk of toxic positivity, where individuals feel pressured to always love their bodies, even when struggling with self-image. This can create feelings of guilt or inadequacy for those who don’t always feel confident about their appearance.

To maximize the benefits of body-positive content, individuals should engage with a broad range of voices within the movement. Seeking out accounts that feature different body types, abilities, and backgrounds can create a more inclusive and realistic view of body image. Additionally, critically evaluating social media habits and taking breaks when necessary can help prevent feelings of comparison and inadequacy.

Seeking Professional Support

While body positivity can be empowering, some people may still struggle with self-image and mental health challenges. If social media is negatively impacting your self-esteem, talking to a therapist can help. Professional support can provide tools to navigate negative thoughts, build confidence, and foster a healthier relationship with your body.

Therapists can work with individuals to address issues such as body dysmorphia, anxiety, or disordered eating that may stem from social media influences. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments can help reframe harmful thought patterns and develop a more positive self-view. Seeking help is a proactive step toward self-acceptance and well-being.

Navigating Social Media in a Healthy Way

To make social media a positive space, it helps to be intentional about the content you consume. Here are a few ways to curate a healthier feed:

• Follow accounts that promote realistic and diverse body representation.
• Limit exposure to overly edited and idealized images.
• Take breaks from social media to focus on real-life connections.
• Engage with supportive communities that encourage self-acceptance.
• Practice mindful scrolling by checking in with your emotions while using social media.
• Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel negative about yourself.
• Set time limits for social media use to avoid excessive exposure to unrealistic portrayals.
• Use social media to uplift others by sharing body-positive content and encouraging self-love in your interactions.

Moving Forward with Body Positivity

Body positivity continues to shape social media, making it a more inclusive and empowering space. While challenges remain, the movement has helped many people feel more confident in their skin. By being mindful of the content we consume and share, we can contribute to a healthier, more supportive online environment.

If you’re struggling with body image and social media’s impact on your self-esteem, we can help. Call us at 347-718-2681 to speak with a licensed therapist and take the first step toward a healthier relationship with your body and online presence.

Jill Lewis

Jill Lewis MA, LCSW, CGP, and current fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association. Jill brings all parts of herself to her practice. She’s authentic, genuine, attentive, attuned, and works to be perceptive in every interaction with her clients. She challenges and gently encourages her clients who are struggling but also willing to put the work in for a brighter future.