Is this a little off topic, or our eating disorders built upon the foundation of things such as this? I am referring to the new artificial intelligence app called Lensa. My Facebook feed is positively inundated with these images, which are attractive, but unattainable in reality. How do contrived images as these affect our perceptions of self and our weight maintenance? Do they inspire us to try harder, or discourage us enough to give up in disgust?
I recently came across an article in The Guardian (albeit not the most objective source) that is quite thought provoking (1). It claims that these portraits are misogynistic, and they make a good point. However, it’s not the only problem with these images. Yes, they are beautiful, but it’s a kind of false beauty that can rarely if ever be achieved by ordinary folk. Can they be used in a constructive way for weight maintenance? Or are they encouraging unhealthy attitudes?
Laura Wheatman Hill recently wrote a piece for Insider where she explains that Lensa can be a trigger (2). If you have a history of body dysmorphia, it can bring up feelings that are not constructive. Does Lensa only affect those with disorders, or can it influence all of us? How can we minimize the negative impact of these images?
First, we know they are fake, while our own imperfect bodies and faces are our reality. They are fantasy, but dreaming up such imagery is not solving any real life problems. Can it be a benign pastime? Or does objectifying the female form cause more harm than good?
Second, we might not want to plaster them all over social media. Does this activity support others? Is it healthy? What does it promote?
Finally, turn the page. Yes, I need to turn the page and not give this app more attention than it deserves! Staying on target is a key to maintaining a healthy body and mindset.
(2). https://www.insider.com/woman-with-disordered-body-image-tried-lensa-app-2022-12?amp
Maintain Weight Loss 