How to Unfollow Beauty Standards on Social Media and Reclaim Your Feed
In today’s digital age, social media can feel like an overwhelming space full of filtered images, curated lifestyles, and unrealistic beauty standards. For many, this can lead to body image concerns, feelings of inadequacy, and a disconnect from our authentic selves. However, social media can also be a powerful tool for body liberation, self-expression, and empowerment when used intentionally. In this guide, we’ll explore how to curate a social media presence that aligns with body positivity and liberation, allowing you to reclaim your feed and your sense of self-worth.
Step 1: Recognize the Impact of Beauty Standards
Before diving into changing your social media habits, it’s important to understand how beauty standards are reinforced through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. These platforms often highlight narrow definitions of beauty, focusing on features like slimness, smooth skin, and Eurocentric traits. It’s essential to acknowledge how this can affect your perception of yourself and others. Recognizing the impact is the first step toward freeing yourself from these societal constraints.
Step 2: Identify Accounts That Contribute to Negative Self-Image
Take an honest look at the accounts you follow and how they make you feel. Do certain influencers or celebrities leave you feeling less than or dissatisfied with your body? Pay attention to the accounts that fuel comparison, envy, or negative body talk. If you find yourself constantly feeling inadequate after scrolling through certain profiles, it’s time to unfollow them. Your feed should be a place that nurtures your mental well-being, not a source of stress or insecurity.
Step 3: Follow Accounts that Promote Body Liberation
Now that you’ve identified the accounts that no longer serve you, start following content that aligns with body liberation, diversity, and self-acceptance. Look for influencers, activists, and communities that embrace all body types, challenge beauty standards, and promote self-love. These accounts may feature a range of body sizes, skin tones, abilities, and gender expressions, encouraging you to see beauty in all forms.
A few of my favorite accounts:
@TheBodyIsNotAnApology
@BodyPositivePower
@IWeigh (Jameela Jamil’s movement)
@PlusModelMag (Plus-size fashion magazine)
@FatPositiveFeminist
Step 4: Curate Inspirational, Uplifting Content
Once you’ve followed accounts that support body liberation, take it a step further by curating content that uplifts you. Follow mental health advocates, artists, and creators who promote authenticity and vulnerability. Seek out accounts that discuss self-love, mindfulness, and well-being in a holistic way. You can also follow accounts related to fashion, fitness, and beauty that celebrate diversity in all its forms—ensuring that what you see in your feed aligns with your values and supports a positive body image.
Step 5: Engage with Content that Fosters Empowerment
Liking, commenting on, and sharing content that makes you feel empowered is an excellent way to foster a positive relationship with social media. Join conversations about body liberation, self-care, and acceptance. Engaging with content that nurtures your self-esteem and challenges harmful societal norms can help reinforce these beliefs in your own life.
Step 6: Create Your Own Content That Reflects Your Values
Social media isn’t just for following others; it’s also a platform for expressing yourself. Consider creating content that reflects your own body liberation journey. Share photos, stories, and thoughts about your experiences with body image, self-love, or challenging societal standards. This not only helps normalize body diversity, but it also allows others to connect with your authentic self and learn from your journey.
Ideas for Body-Liberating Content:
Share affirmations that promote body acceptance.
Post selfies that celebrate your natural beauty.
Write captions about embracing your body through all stages.
Share your story of healing from body shame.
Your content can be a powerful tool for inspiring others while affirming your own commitment to self-love and body liberation.
Step 7: Set Boundaries with Social Media
It’s important to set healthy boundaries with social media to avoid falling back into old patterns of comparison and negativity. Consider implementing the following:
Social Media Detox: Take breaks from social media when needed to reset your mind and body.
Limit Exposure: Set time limits on your apps or schedule “social media-free” days to maintain balance.
Mute: If you don’t want to unfollow someone but don’t want their content appearing in your feed, use the mute feature instead.
Step 8: Reevaluate Your Social Media Presence Regularly
As you continue on your body liberation journey, it’s important to reevaluate your social media presence regularly. Your needs and interests will evolve, and so should the content you consume. Take time to reflect on how social media makes you feel and adjust your feed accordingly.
Conclusion:
Reclaiming your social media feed is a powerful act of body liberation. By unfollowing beauty standards and curating a feed that celebrates body diversity, you can build a positive relationship with yourself and foster a sense of empowerment. With therapy and ongoing self-care, you can deepen your journey toward healing and self-acceptance.
If this resonates with you, let’s work together to continue reclaiming your body and mind. Schedule a free consultation today to explore how therapy can support your journey toward body liberation and self-love.
