Ah, social media—the ever-shifting medium that operates both as a means of communication and an endless analysis of our culture’s deepest problems. While the narrative surrounding social media has largely leaned negative, the best Instagrams to follow recommended by our editors present an alternative viewpoint. After all, when we adhere to its intended use, social media can help us share ideas, build connection, and support the limitless spread of inspiration.
Of course, depending on its application, social media can also be taxing. Too much time on the platforms can breed criticism and critique. So to crowd out the bad, comparison-breeding vibes, we’re creating space for the positive by following the best Instagrams to follow for happiness, laughter, and a more mindful social media experience—because we all deserve a little digital joy.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
The Best Instagrams To Follow for a More Inspiring Feed
@kristy.sarah
The JOY that is her husband’s high-pitched laugh/scream every time she pranks is pure dopamine. You cannot help but smile. This video where he thinks she’s eating raw chicken—but it’s actually cake—was the one that hooked me. — Brittany, Creative Marketing Director
@hellicity_merriman (and every American Girl Doll meme account)
I recently went through all of my social media follows and narrowed the number from 600 to less than 250. The exercise was gratifying and centering, to say the least. My favorites of those who stayed? All the American Girl doll meme accounts that make me feel called out with every post.
@hellicity_merriman is an absolute gem. The two best friends who run the account regularly post what they call “outfit report cards” judging all the American Girl dolls’ various outfits. They’re nothing short of hilarious, but they also evoke a certain sense of nostalgia that, if you grew up in the 90s and 2000s, can totally relate to. (Plus, if you want to dive deep into why these accounts are resonating with so many people, read this.) — Isabelle, Managing Editor
@rudyjude
Maybe it’s because I grew up in California—and now have roots in Colorado—but I am totally fascinated by life in the Northeast. Rudy Jude is a lovely follow, a mom raising her family in rural Maine while running a clothing business in LA. She shows her family’s sweet, simple, and outdoorsy life. It’s real yet dreamy and a joy to watch. — Edie, Wellness Contributor
@jennymwalton
If you like cute dogs, fashion, and people who don’t take themselves too seriously, you’ll love following Jenny. I’m always inspired by the way she sees the world, with a lot of humor and appreciation for the beauty in life. Whether it’s a unique spoon, mundane yet beautiful photos of streets, or a really chic outfit I would’ve never thought to put together. — Nihel, Social Media Manager
@megsstalter
Many of us may know her purely as the silly, terrible assistant on Hacks, but Statler gets to be the main character on Instagram. It’s hard to pick the greatest hits, but if you get a kick out of her riff on Che Diaz, a Meg Statler follow is exactly what your feed needs. — Caitlin, Contributing Editor
@hicaitlinreilly
This is the rare social media account that inspires me to actually pick up my phone and type in her profile name when I need to laugh. Start with the child talent agent and prepare to scroll—cry-laughing all the way. — Camille, Editor-in-Chief
@animalsdoingthings
Memes + animals = my happy place on the ‘gram. This account features an array of random animal photos, videos, and memes that will make you laugh, smile, and sometimes wonder what in the world you’re looking at. Is that actually a bear flipping burgers? — Michelle Nash, Executive Producer
@seamossgirlies
If you’re into all things wellness but love a good laugh, this is the meme account to follow. Run by two friends, it speaks to the very real concerns of the wellness-obsessed. Prepare for aphorisms like: the nut butter aisle is my therapy, he’s a 6 but wants to talk about magnesium, and comments upon the internal shower drink trend. You’ll laugh out loud and feel seen by how relatable all of the content is. — Isabelle, Managing Editor
