This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Augustana chapter.
Quarantine had a different effect on everyone, both mentally and physically. Some people thrived during this isolation, soaking up each day with new hobbies and interests. Others didn’t, spending their time feeling bitter emptiness. Regardless of whether it was satisfying or tedious, quarantine has given people something they haven’t had before. A lot of time to themselves.
With this time, many people decided to download an app called TikTok, where they make or view videos of up to 60 seconds. There are many types of TikTok videos viewers can get on their “for you page.” These include animal TikTok, cosplay TikTok, funny TikTok, POV TikTok, or even BrickTok (yes, videos dedicated to laying bricks). But one that stands out is Body Positivity TikTok, where influencers of all body types are encouraging viewers to abolish the harsh stereotypes of beauty.
Photo by I Yunmai from Unsplash
Brooklynne Webb (@xobrooklynne), a 16-year-old on TikTok, dedicates a majority of her page to body positivity and self-acceptance. Her speciality is responding to hate comments that attack her for proudly showing off her stomach. Brooklynne will respond to the hateful comments such as, “girl, crop tops were not made for you,” by dancing happily in a crop top with the caption, “crop tops were made for everyone, everybody. Boys and girls. Period.”
Photo by Amanda Vick from Unsplash
Brooklynne isn’t the only influencer showing off her beautiful tummy. Sienna Mae Gomez and Brittani Lancaster join her in wearing crop tops and proudly displaying stomach rolls. This “tummy out” chain changes the game of toxic beauty standards and allows viewers to realize they should stop hiding or being ashamed of their weight. Brittani (@brittanilancaster) says in her comment section, “you are wonderfully made”. Brooklynne captioned her video, “let’s own every bit of ourselves because it’s all beautiful.” Sienna (@siennamae) captioned hers, “this is no doubt better than any other TikTok chain created.”
Photo by Jacqueline Munguia from Unsplash
Other TikTokers encourage the importance of respecting ourselves and our bodies. @tarahelizabeth captions her video: “All your lumps and bumps are beautiful,” and @bbymagic recites the powerful message, “Girls, please remember your body is a temple.”
Body positivity does not stop with women. There are also TikToks that speak out about body positivity for men in similar ways such as “tummy out” chains, crop top videos, and images promoting male body positivity and worth.
It can be hard not to criticize our bodies during quarantine, a time where we stay in one place and mope. But influencers like this provide a place for people to turn to realize that every single body is built in a unique, beautiful way. Respecting and loving others begins with self-appreciation and acceptance. Take some time out of your day to look in the mirror, tummy out, and appreciate yourself.
Kaitlin Jacobson is currently a Sophomore at Augustana College majoring in Creative Writing. Along with writing articles for Her Campus, Kaitlin is a Features Reporter in The Observer, the school newspaper at Augustana. She has always had a passion for writing, and also enjoys writing songs and poetry. When not writing, Kaitlin can be found participating in theater and choir, along with various clubs at her school.
