We all know a lot of the images we in the media are highly filtered or Photoshopped, but that doesnโt stop many of us feeling inadequate.
When the constant bombardment of one-size-fits-all beauty is damaging your self-esteem, it can be tempting to shut off from technology altogether - but there is another way.
Body-positivity has gone from strength to strength on Instagram, with advocates reclaiming the space as somewhere to celebrate diversity, love themselves and support one another, instead of promoting unrealistic beauty standards.
If youโre in need of a body-confidence boost, unfollow the accounts that make you feel bad about yourself and check out these people instead.
1. Harnaam Kaur (@harnaamkaur)
Activist Harnaam Kaur was bullied as a teenager, which damaged her self-esteem to the point where she felt suicidal. Harnaam has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and, as a result, has facial hair. But now she has learned to love herself and be proud of her beard.
Follow her for sass-filled posts that stick a middle finger up to convention.
2. Megan Jayne Crabbe (@bodyposipanda)
Megan Jayne Crabbe, who previously struggled with anorexia, knows that being thinner does not necessarily equate to be healthier, both physically and mentally.
Follow for regular, colourful reminders that embracing your natural size is one of the most empowering things you will ever do.
3. Bishamber Das (@bishamberdas)
As Britainโs โfirst Asian plus-size modelโ, Bishamber Das is living proof that fashion really is for all.
Follow for clothes inspo and quick quotes that wonโt leave you feeling crap about yourself.
4. Kelvin Davis (@notoriouslydapper)
Kelvin Davis is leading the charge showing body-positivity isnโt just for women. We particularly like the caption on the above photo: โMe pointing to all the haters who said I was โtoo fatโ to be a model.โ
Follow for high fashion shots with a sense of humour.
5. Megan Smith (@selfloveclub)
Founder of the hashtag #SelfLoveClub, Milly Smith posts about body-positivity, mental health and chronic illness, shining a light on how all three are connected.
Follow for reminders that appearances canโt tell you whatโs going on inside and that you are always good enough.
6. Kay Ska (@kay_ska)
Kay Ska canโt understand why the world hates cellulite and belly rolls and after checking out her posts, you wonโt either.
Follow for updates from a totally relatable girl youโll simply want to be friends with.
7. Troy Solomon (@abearnamedtroy)
Troy Solomanโs account is a fashion extravaganza and a reminder that youโre biggest fan should always be yourself.
Follow to see Troy pull off the styles and poses youโre too shy to try for an instant confidence boost.
