Remember; comparison is the thief of joy!

The term has risen in popularity on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and describes a specific look that’s quickly becoming yet another impossible body standard for women. 

‘Septum arms’ is used to refer to a slim, toned - but not overly muscular - appearance of the upper arms.

While the term may sound strange, its implications are all too familiar for women across the globe.

Just like previous trends - like ‘thigh gaps’ and ‘hip dips’ - the rise of ‘septum arms’ is fuelling a culture of comparison and criticism.

Impossible Standards

At its core, the idea of ‘septum arms’ promotes an incredibly specific aesthetic that very few women naturally have.

The trend glorifies slender arms with minimal fat, a particular muscle tone, and a smoothness that can only be achieved through a combination of genetics, strict diet, and potentially hours of targeted exercise.

For most women, this body ideal is simply unattainable without extreme measures. 

Much like other viral body trends, ‘septum arms’ reinforces the idea that only certain body types are worthy of admiration or acceptance. 

The idea that a person’s arms need to look a certain way to be considered attractive or beautiful is yet another standard that women are pressured to meet - adding to the already lengthy list of body parts that have come under scrutiny by social media. 

Mental Health

The mental health implications of these kinds of trends are significant. 

There are lots of women who already struggle with body image issues thanks to the unrealistic standards put out there by social media and popular culture. 

The rise of ‘septum arms’ adds yet another source of anxiety and self-criticism. 

Women may feel compelled to obsess over the size and shape of their arms, leading to unhealthy behaviours such as disordered eating, over-exercising, or cosmetic procedures to achieve the look.

Social Media Algorithms

Social media platforms play a significant role in amplifying these trends, which in itself is an issue that needs to be addressed.

Algorithms are designed to prioritise content that generates high engagement, and body trends like this are often accompanied by viral challenges, workout routines, and before-and-after transformation videos. 

This content, in turn, receives more likes, shares, and comments, ensuring that it reaches a wider audience.

For impressionable audiences, particularly young women and girls, this message can be so damaging, reinforcing the notion that their value is tied to their ability to conform to these fleeting and unrealistic beauty standards.

Body Positivity

While it can feel overwhelming to navigate a social media landscape filled with ever-changing body trends, there are ways to push back against these toxic ideals. 

Body positivity and neutrality movements have gained momentum in recent years, advocating for acceptance and appreciation of all body types. 

The ‘septum arms’ trend is just the latest in a series of unattainable beauty ideals that social media platforms have amplified over the years. 

While the impact of these trends on women's mental health is severe, it is important to remember that these standards are often fleeting. 

However, embracing and celebrating all body types is not just a trend - it’s a necessary shift toward a healthier society.

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