If you scroll through the SelfLove and BodyPositivity hashtags on Instagram, you'll see an array of what appear to be transformation photos —side-by-side shots that people use to proudly share their progress in changing their weight, size, or muscle tone. These images are popular within the fitness community, where they serve as inspiration for people looking to change themselves physically or live healthier lives. But a closer look will reveal something interesting: Many of these side-by-sides aren't traditional transformation photos at all. Instead, they're " 5-second transformations " taken by body-positive Instagrammers hoping to show how misleading images on social media can be. Whereas most transformation photos are shot over a period of weeks or months, these 5-second transformation photos are taken mere seconds apart, and they highlight how easy it is to manipulate an image using different poses, lighting, and camera angles. For example, when Aerie Real model Iskra Lawrence casually sits down, she has visible stomach rolls. But when she arches her back, they magically disappear.
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I was always really active, so it was strange. I was bullied a lot throughout my school years, and I hated my body - absolutely hated it. It really affected my mental health. When I was in college, I went on a big, long-term diet and lost five stone. I was still the same person, but a lot less happy. I remember seeing the first girl that used a body positive hashtag and I thought she looked amazing. But one night someone commented on all of my pictures saying that I was fat and looked like someone from Star Wars. I messaged her and asked her why she was doing it.
What is body image?
Tammin Sursok has penned a heartbreaking open letter addressed to her 'fat' year-old self, offering a glimpse into her traumatic school days. Tammin's emotional letter, which was posted to Instagram, referenced several real-life incidents from her youth - including being humiliated by a boy she had a crush on, mocked at the swimming pool and bullied by a female classmate. All's well that ends well: Tammin concluded the letter by reassuring her teenage self that she will eventually reach a healthy weight and discover the power of self-confidence. Pictured with her daughters earlier this year. The boy standing in front of you will break you. He will break your heart in ways you never thought possible. He will embarrass you as you feel the stares of awkward pre-pubescent males all stifling a hearty laugh.
Your account is not active. We have sent an email to the address you provided with an activation link. Check your inbox, and click on the link to activate your account. As summer is right around the corner, many people may be looking to shed a few pounds. Unfortunately, losing weight isn't all that easy. In fact, most of the time the hardest part is getting motivated. Which is why we here at Bored Panda have put together this motivating list of before and after weight loss pictures.
