According to Psychology Today, body image is the mental representation we construct of what we think we look like, which may or may not bear a resemblance to how others actually see us. Instead, our self-created image is influenced by emotions, mood, early experiences, and parental attitudes, perhaps even moreso than the reflection in the mirror. And whether we like what we see in that mirror has much to do with what society perceives as desirable and what the media perpetuates as normal. Unfortunately “desirable” and “normal” may also be unrealistic for most humans. Consider that on average, we’re bombarded by around 5,000 Photoshop-altered images in a week.
However, the same media that inundates us with the unattainable can be used to fight back. Here are 10 unique instances of men and women successfully using media to revolutionize the way we see ourselves.
A woman relaxes with a book at homeCanva
An eviction notice is being attached to a doorCanva
Gif of Kristen Bell saying 'Ya basic!' via 
The chart illustrates that between ages 16 and 20, roughly half the population loses their virginity. By age 22, 90% of the population has had sex.
A group of young people hold their phonesCanva
(LEFT) Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale and (RIGHT) Ray Bolger as Scarecrow from "The Wizard of OZ"CBS/ 
(LEFT) The Wonderful Wizard of Oz children's novel and (RIGHT) The Wizard of Oz movie poster.William Wallace Denslow/ 
A frustrated woman at a car dealershipCanva
Bee Arthur gif asking "What do you want from me?" via 
A couple on a lunch dateCanva
Gif of Obama saying "Man, that's shady" via 
Elegance in red.Photo credit: 
An older woman shows off some bling.Photo credit: 
A woman enjoys a beautiful day. Photo credit: 