Our concept of the ideal body shape has changed over the generations. If you look at the paintings of the greater masters of the 16th -19th century, you will notice that all the women were plump by today’s standards. They were not just plump, most of them had quite a prominent stomach too. One explanation for that is that in the days of rampant food shortage, only the wealthy could afford fatty, rich food and 3 meals a day. Hence being plump was a sign of wealth and was desired. By the mid-20th century, hourglass figures became more popular, as epitomized by the likes of Marilyn Monroe. Women were expected to have a slim waist, full hips, and a large bust. This changed by the 1990s when the  waif look became popular. Models such as Kate Moss became popular for their androgynous and slender figures, which were seen as a departure from the traditional curvy, voluptuous look of previous decades. This look was seen as rebellious and edgy, and it gained popularity among fashion designers and photographers. Several Indian movie heroines also gained popularity with their waif looks – Kareena Kapoor and Deepika Pudukone being 2 examples.

Slighly older generations developed ideas on what is ideal and what is not from watching movies and from magazines. The current generation gets its ideals largely from  social media. Social media is plastered with influencers who very often cover their real self and portray themselves as having size 0 bodies and 'glass' skins. The constant exposure to images of "perfect" bodies and idealized standards of beauty can lead to negative feelings about one's own body, leading to body dissatisfaction, poor self-esteem, and even eating disorders.

There are several ways in which social media can affect body image;

• Comparison: Social media encourages constant comparison with others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of not measuring up to unrealistic standards.
• Filters and editing: Social media platforms like Instagram offer a range of filters and editing tools that can significantly alter a person's appearance. Seeing edited images can lead to unrealistic expectations of what is normal and attainable. Having one’s own pictured airbrushed and edited can lead to feelings of inadequacy that they are not as perfect as their picture.
• Influencers and celebrities: Social media influencers and celebrities often have large followings and are seen as role models. However, they often promote unrealistic beauty standards that can negatively impact the self-esteem of their followers.
• Comments and feedback: Social media platforms allow for instant feedback and comments from others. Negative comments about a person's appearance can be particularly damaging to their self-esteem and body image.
• Objectification: Social media can also contribute to the objectification of bodies, where individuals are reduced to their appearance and valued based on how attractive they are. This can be harmful, especially for women, as it can lead to a sense of worthlessness and insecurity
• Lack of diversity: Social media can present a limited view of beauty, featuring mostly thin, fair skinned, able-bodied individuals. This can lead to a lack of representation and inclusion for individuals with different body types, skin colours, or disabilities, which can negatively impact their body image

However social media is here to stay. We need to learn and we need to teach our children to view social media without it affecting our sense of self. Here are some things that might help.

• Unfollow accounts that promote an unhealthy body image and make you feel bad about yourself
• Follow influencers who promote body positivity.
• Limit your time on social media. Stop endless scrolling and figure out things you can do with your life that makes you happier and healthier with the time.
• Recognise social media in not real life. Remember that influencers are showing heavily curated versions of themselves.
• If you are struggling with body image issues, talk to a trusted friend or a family member. A counsellor can help you get perspective and help you love yourself the way you are.