It's important to remember that Instagram isn't always the full image.
There are filters, angles and effects used by all of us so we know our best side to present when we're uploading to any social media site.
One Instagram star who knows all about putting her best step forward, or rather her best photo forward, is Anna Victoria.
The fitness model shared an email she got from an upset teenage fan who was looking for inspiration, and thus shared an unposed, natural photo to show how normal she is.
Anna wrote:
"Just a lounging selfie ? no makeup or hair done, not posing (and no sticking out either). I'm not sharing this because I think I look bad, or because tummy rolls are bad, or because cellulite, messy hair or no makeup is bad. None of those things are bad or imperfect. They are NORMAL.-
I'm sharing this because I just received an email from a 16 year old girl that said I am the only person she follows that actually made her feel good about herself. That even though she's not particularly unhappy with her body, that seeing endless perfect photos started to make herself compare, poke and prod at her own body. The impact social media has on young girls and their self-esteem is an issue I feel very strongly about and if me posting one casual, non-posing, non-done up photo can help a young girl (or man, or anyone of any age!) feel better about themselves, then I'm happy to put myself out there.
-
Some will look at this and say "what's the big deal?" If it doesn't resonate with you, that's ok. I just ask that you think of those who it does help before firing off with negativity because you don't "get" it. So when we live in a society that profits from your insecurities, be a rebel and LOVE yourself. Love your body at every angle and don't ever be ashamed of being human, of struggling, or hey, even of loving the crap out of yourself!! ? We need more girls who are wildly confident and loving every bit of themselves and shouting it from the rooftops. Show young girls it's not only okay but necessary to be confident, strong young women, "flaws" and all"
Anna, if you're reading this, we seriously commend you for your honesty and hope other Instagram babes follow suit.
What is your favourite Irish baby name? We’ll always have a soft spot for Irish baby boy names, but there are so many that are not getting quite enough attention. Names like Fia and Rían are growing in popularity, but there are dozens of Irish names being forgotten about. One of our personal favourites is […]
‘Perfect on a sunny day’ Amazon has slashed the price of a ‘perfect’ garden addition just in time for summer. If you’re looking to spruce up your garden as the weather gets warmer, then this double-sized parasol is currently on sale for just €79.11. Rather than the usual round, single-canopy shape, this one features a […]
‘Perfect duvet for allergy sufferers’ Getting a good night’s sleep is important, particularly during the warmers months when many struggle due to the heat and allergies such as hayfever. This anti-allergy duvet and pillow set is grabbing shoppers’ attention as it’s ‘helping’ people get an improved night’s sleep. The Slumberdown Anti-Allergy Duvet and Pillows set […]