~*Because EVERYONE Deserves Support!*~
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Welcome to Project Shapeshift
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What Is Project Shapeshift?
Project Shapeshift is home to a diverse, international Pro-Ana/Pro-Reality/Ana Acceptance Community for adults age 18-50+ with *RESTRICTIVE* ED’s (AN, EDNOS-r, orthorexia, etc.). Our Members hail from many Nations, cultures, beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations (LGBTQ Safe Zone) and walks of Life.
While this Site is public, the Community Forum is a private group; i.e., one must register on the Board itself in order to view and share. The PS Community embraces the concept of Optimal Wellness: Finding A Workable Balance Between Overt ED Pathology and perfect health; and Living WITH, not FOR, one’s ED. Wherever you are in your Journey, we are here to support you! :) Many of our Members have found current treatment modalities to be inadequate, inaccessible or altogether ineffective. 60-75% of anorexics never recover fully. Unfortunately, many Recovery-focused sites are intolerant of sharing about the intricacies of the ED experience. We at PS believe that this is a stifling and alienating approach and offer a more open, accepting environment for ED sufferers. We are accepting of the PROACTIVE IN ANOREXIA subgroup of Pro-Ana ONLY — this is NOT a place for wanarexics or ED Groupies hoping to acquire an ED. This is NOT A DIET SITE! Harmful “tips and tricks” are strictly forbidden, as is “diet education.” ~*Be Well, and Good Journey!*~ ***UPDATED POLICY REGARDING INTENDED AUDIENCE!***
NOTICE TO MINORS -- YOU ARE PROHIBITED FROM JOINING OUR FORUM COMMUNITY!
If you are a minor, MOVE ON. Any Member suspected of being underage will be INVESTIGATED THOROUGHLY by any means available online, and minors will be banned until they are of appropriate age to access our Forum! EXCEPTION: IF you wish to obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian to access the Project Shapeshift Community Forum, contact AnaGirlEmpath for the appropriate form. The signing adult will need to provide signature verification to deter forgeries on the part of minors. A picture of a parent's ID which shows their signature is required as well as the permission form. These signatures must match to be accepted. NOTICE TO ED GROUPIES/WANAREXICS -- YOU ARE UNWELCOME HERE! If you think ED's are "cool" or "chic" or are looking to lose several pounds for some special event; if you are obese and hoping to be motivated herein; if you are otherwise fixated, enamored, enthralled or attracted to ED Communities, MOVE ON NOW! The intended audience for Project Shapeshift is as follows: 1. Individuals 18 years of age or older who have Anorexia Nervosa (AN) 2. Individuals 18 years of age or older with another RESTRICTIVE ED (EDNOS-r; Orthorexia; etc.) 3. Individuals who prefer to identify as one who walks Ana's Path in Volition* IF YOU DO NOT ALREADY HAVE A **RESTRICTIVE** EATING DISORDER OR IDENTIFY AS *GENUINELY* WALKING ANA'S PATH IN VOLITION (*Rejecting victim mentality -- ProReality, NeoProAna, etc.), THIS SITE IS NOT FOR YOU! ~*Implementation Of Changes At Project Shapeshift: Protocol; Issues*~ PROJECT SHAPESHIFT HAS EMBRACED A NEW GENRE DESCRIPTOR IN ADDITION TO PRO-ANA: ANA ACCEPTANCE! Why? The term "Pro-Ana" can mean so many different things, and no longer clearly depicts what this Site and Forum are about. With the advent of the Second-Wave Pro-Ana Movement, we have seen a disturbing influx of individuals drawn to PS for the wrong reasons, and a distortion in the general conceptualization of what Pro-Ana is all about. AnaGirlEmpath wrote the following report on this phenomenon: The Pro-Ana Movement and related Sites have remained a volatile and highly debated phenomenon of our time, most significantly due to the involvement of minors in creating and populating Pro-Ana Sites. Recently, France banned all websites of this genre due to the purported danger of the material encountered on Sites like these to minors. The research is abundantly clear: Yes, minors have created, run and populated Pro-Ana Sites. Further, adults have created Pro-Ana Sites with potentially damaging content, and have neglected to exercise prudent care in making such Sites and Forums open-access, with no age criterion for Members. This is the focal point of the condemnation we who walk Ana's Path have faced, from past to present. It is critical to understand, however, that there are significant benefits to Sites like ours, and that a mature, responsible approach to the Pro-Ana Movement has actually SAVED LIVES, promoted Healing and Balance along the Journey; enabled those seeking Optimal Wellness to unite and develop strategies to avoid the pitfalls, risks and complications associated with restrictive ED behavior. Second, there are those who seek Ana's Path in a Volitional manner. Volitional Anorexia in this case is defined as one who walks Ana's Path in the absence of obsessive, negative and self-destructive pathology. In recent years, a more socially acceptable moniker has become the flag of Volitional Anorexic Praxis: CRON (Caloric Restriction; Optimal Nutrition). CRON differs principally from Pro-Ana in that the focus is purportedly an aim for maximizing Health and Longevity. This Lifepath is NOT associated with a pathological impetus and is therefore tolerated to a significant extent by society at large. When one searches for accurate, informative, constructive or otherwise positive reports regarding Pro-Ana, one finds a profound disparity of quality content. We as a society are much more interested in the negative; the macabre; the sensationalistic, and therefore, the positive side to the Duality of walking Ana’s Path in Optimal Wellness is all but categorically absent in research and publications on this subject. This is a tragedy for the thousands upon thousands of people aided by membership in a Pro-Ana Community. Project Shapeshift has always remained in steadfast advocacy of this approach to the Journey as valid and potentially beneficial. Negative attention is always loudest and travels the furthest, and thus positive findings are few and far between. |
The History Of Project ShapeshiftProject Shapeshift, the brainchild of Narscissa, was originally created as a Yahoo! group in the late 1990's. When the group sustained repeated shutdowns due to the controversy of the Pro-Ana Movement and resultant mass-persecution of the site genre beginning in 2001, Narscissa elected to move her Creation to a reliable domain (hereafter referred to as "PS1"). Narscissa moved PS1 to a private server, plagueangel, where content could be safeguarded and the Project Shapeshift Community could flourish without undue censure. Project Shapeshift saw phenomenal growth; Narscissa's Creation stood out prominently among the Pro Ana Communities which began to surface in remarkable numbers across the Internet during the height of the Movement in the coming years.
Narscissa was the first to write of Ana as an Entity in Her own right; which she named "Anamadim." Due to the commonness of ED's experienced as the presence of an Entity within; separate from self, Narscissa's unique perspective found acceptance among many. Drawn to the charismatic and Powerful material which constituted the core Philosophy of Project Shapeshift (read: self-empowerment and rejection of the 'treatment resistant'/'forever sick' label), the PS1 Community continued to grow and thrive. PS1 remained thus until April of 2007, at which time a critical impasse was reached among PS1 Staff. A schism took place as a result of the ensuing conflict: A group of former PS1 Administrators and Moderators enacted a coup, creating their own separate Site -- furnished with stolen material from PS1 -- and deleting the content at PS1. Narscissa resurfaced after some time away during the coup, and put a stop to the mass-deletion of content when all was nearly lost. For days, Narscissa, Aijin (then known as "Luxt") and several loyal Members worked feverishly around the clock to reconstruct PS1. At the time of the Reconstruction, it was determined that the current server was no longer adequate to support the growing needs of the PS Community, and the search began for a new domain and web host. Several months after working diligently on the Reconstruction effort, Narscissa transferred Site Ownership to Aijin, who served us faithfully in the ensuing months. In April of 2008, Aijin created a new site once again, known as PS2. As time progressed, Aijin found herself more and more immersed in a rigorous routine in her offline life. To ensure that PS2 was looked after, Aijin promoted AnaGirlEmpath to Administrator in late August of 2008. On February 10, 2009, Aijin transferred Site Ownership to AnaGirlEmpath, whom is fiercely dedicated to upholding the highest standards of service for Project Shapeshift and our illustrious Community. We were all delighted to once again possess the security of a fully-supported Site with regular backup of content! None of the former problems at PS1 existed at PS2. The Community at last truly settled in after the traumatic aftermath of the 4/07 Schism. We had been through much, but a genuine healing took place. Once again, Project Shapeshift became a cohesive, thriving Community. Old Members began to find their way home, and new Members were (and still are) joining every day. Narscissa's brainchild continues to grow, touching the lives of many who walk Ana's Path. With the advent of new, sophisticated technology, the PS Community outgrew the capacities of PS2. This prompted AnaGirlEmpath to look for a newer platform to support all Community-related multimedia and the addition of a chatroom, among other features. The result is this site, our third home: PS3. All individuals 18 or older who are Living with a RESTRICTIVE ED (AN, EDNOS-r, orthorexia and/or choose to identify as ProACTIVE Pro-Ana/ProReality/NeoProAna etc.) are welcome here! :) Under A.G.E.'s leadership, several Refocusing Discussions have been held over the past few years. As a Community, we have embraced an Ethos of love, acceptance, support, tolerance, positivity, harm reduction, and most importantly, Optimal Wellness -- Living WITH, not FOR, one's ED; and finding a workable balance on the Thin Red Line between sickness and health. EATING DISORDER RECOVERY LINKS
UNITED STATES:
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Diseases [ANAD] National Eating Disorders Association [NEDA] UNITED KINGDOM: Beating Eating Disorders [b-EAT] Other ED-Related Links:
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What Does "Pro-Ana" Mean?
The two major definitions of Pro-Ana are based on the two most common populations who embrace the term as an identifying descriptor:
1. Individuals with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) or other restrictive eating disorders (ED's): Those who identify as Pro-Ana embrace the term as PROACTIVE IN ANOREXIA - making the most of their Lives despite their disorder. This group includes those for whom conventional treatment is inadequate, inaccessible, ineffective or unwanted. Commonly, people seek out Alternative-Approach ED support sites (i.e., any community that isn't strictly conventional ProRecovery-focused) stems from barriers to treatment and a subsequent desire to reach out and connect with others for support in a non-judgmental environment. They may or may not recovery-oriented [and the definition of what exactly "Recovery" means is another point which varies widely in the ED population]. 2. Individuals who covet pathology; who emulate anorexic behaviors and WANT to cultivate and celebrate ED's within themselves (aka "wanarexics"): These individuals have taken an historical empowerment motto and twisted its intended meaning to a literal interpretation (i.e., a disavowal of victim mentality as an empowerment strategy -- they actually believe that "Anorexia is a Lifestyle, Not A Disease"). These are individuals who do NOT have ED's but wish they did; those who strive to attain the extremely thin physique exhibited in long-term anorexics; who attempt to emulate the eating-disordered practices which manifest in AN patients. The former are seeking a new approach to living with these insidious illnesses; reaching out when current treatment modalities have failed to help. The articulation of the "Ana Creed" and "Ana Psalm"; "Thin Commandments" and "Letters from Ana or Mia" were intended as CREATIVE ALLITERATIONS; explorations of the ED psyche -- they were NEVER meant to be taken literally! IT SHOULD ALSO BE NOTED THAT MOST OF THESE DOCUMENTS WERE WRITTEN BY THERAPISTS (e.g., Carolyn Costin wrote "The Thin Commandments")! This is a critical issue -- and rarely, if ever, acknowledged in mainstream articles and even research studies on Pro-Ana. Wanarexics have embraced these creative works as literal tenets for "how to become anorexic." The latter are resented by genuine sufferers who know all-too-well that ED's are not glamorous, cool or chic in any way. Laughter is great Medicine! ^_^
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We at Project Shapeshift wish to dispel this grievous myth. In order to understand this Community’s position on the ascetic Journey, it is important to understand several things about the dynamic of such an Internet Community; how we operate and what tenets we embrace as core ideology. Recently, with the advent of the Second Wave Pro-Ana Movement, it is with great concern and the onus of responsibility that we as a Community have come to re-evaluate our purpose, intent and priorities.
What is Pro-Ana and What Birthed This Approach?
The term “Pro-Ana” means different things to different people. Research suggests that it was originally utilized by the mothers of Pro-Ana Movement to assert their dismissal of victim mentality; to reject the notion of pathology; to EMPOWER THEMSELVES in the face of a Journey known to be fraught with many rigors. These women understood that Ana’s Call, once heard, is never unknowable. Once Ana [or any other personification -- very common in ED circles in conveying the 'ED Voice' -- yes, in ProRecovery circles, too -- "Ed" being most common] has awakened within, She can never be silenced; never be exorcised. Understanding this truth is profoundly discouraging. One notes the element of despair and lack of autonomy over one’s Life when one is afflicted with a chronic, incurable illness. A dismissal of this sense of futility can be profoundly Healing!
The claim that the founding mothers of the Pro-Ana Movement wished to keep others entrenched in pathology; to recruit healthy individuals to eating disordered Living is grievously erroneous. The Pro-Ana Ideology became, for them, a rejection of the “sick forever” label; an embracing of the unmitigated presence found within; a rejection of social expectations and above all, an EMPOWERING, SELF-GOVERNED FOCUSING OF THE WILL; OF EXERCISING GALVANIZED INTENT in Living with their eating disorders rather than for them.
"This is a gathering point for sentient individuals who are working to cause changes to occur in body in conformity to will. There are no victims here, and maturity is measured in the acceptance of personal responsibility, not the number of birthdays survived.
This is not a place for the faint-hearted, weak, hysterical, or those looking to be rescued. This is not a place for those who bow to consensus definitions of reality or who believe in the cancerous fallacy that there is any other authority on earth besides their own incontrovertibly self-evident, inherent birthright to govern themselves.
This is a place for the elite who, through personal success in their ongoing quest for perfection, demonstrate daily the power and results of applying will, imagination, creativity and effort toward meeting their goals."
--excerpt from Ana's Underground Grotto, original text
NOTE: The Original content has been preserved throughout this Site and will stand for reference herein. Be aware that such material may not reflect our current position on any issue. In lieu of the emergence of the highly disturbing Wanarexic Phenomenon, we have moved the material which we feel is of greatest potential risk to those naive enough to believe that Pro-Ana works should be interpreted literally. We do NOT support the advocacy of pathology! Please keep this in mind when viewing original works posted here. The Grotto and other old texts is now open to read for members only
You must understand that using this website is a PRIVILEGE. It is not a RIGHT. In order to continue using this website, you will abide by the following rules:
For our protection, as well as yours, Project Shapeshift is restricted to persons at or over the age of 18 years. In other words: If you are 18 years of age or older, you are welcome to register! If you are under the age of 18, you will need to contact the Administrator regarding policy and procedure for obtaining formal written consent from your parent/legal guardian.
Moderators of this website are unpaid volunteers. They have offered to donate their time to better this Community, and such altruism will be respected. They are here to ensure that everyone has a safe, sane environment within which to express ideas, opinions, values, and etc. that may (and are likely to) deviate from the mainstream. You are expected to comply with Staff requests and conduct yourself as the mature, sensible individual you are assumed to be.
Members are expected to treat one another with respect and courtesy. Making derogatory, inflammatory or otherwise hurtful comments about another Member is forbidden! First-time violators of this Policy will be warned; subsequent offenses could result in permanent deletion of your Account. Members are prohibited from selling or promoting wares, personal or commercial, unless s/he has the express consent of the Administrator. Promoting other websites is forbidden -- phishing will NOT be tolerated! Spamming/mass-emailing will also result in disciplinary action (warning; suspension or deletion of Account).
All Forum posts are the sentiments and property of the Author and do not necessarily represent any opinions or endorsements of Project Shapeshift. In addition, you may NOT remove or copy any content located on this website without the express consent of its Author. Violation of this rule may result in permanent deletion of your account.
YOU are responsible for what you choose to post on Project Shapeshift. Please remember that this is an Internet Community, and what you post can potentially be read by anyone and everyone. It is up to you to decide what information to disclose. We strongly discourage posting any personal information, such as your real name, address, phone number, or any other personally identifying information.
What is Pro-Ana and What Birthed This Approach?
The term “Pro-Ana” means different things to different people. Research suggests that it was originally utilized by the mothers of Pro-Ana Movement to assert their dismissal of victim mentality; to reject the notion of pathology; to EMPOWER THEMSELVES in the face of a Journey known to be fraught with many rigors. These women understood that Ana’s Call, once heard, is never unknowable. Once Ana [or any other personification -- very common in ED circles in conveying the 'ED Voice' -- yes, in ProRecovery circles, too -- "Ed" being most common] has awakened within, She can never be silenced; never be exorcised. Understanding this truth is profoundly discouraging. One notes the element of despair and lack of autonomy over one’s Life when one is afflicted with a chronic, incurable illness. A dismissal of this sense of futility can be profoundly Healing!
The claim that the founding mothers of the Pro-Ana Movement wished to keep others entrenched in pathology; to recruit healthy individuals to eating disordered Living is grievously erroneous. The Pro-Ana Ideology became, for them, a rejection of the “sick forever” label; an embracing of the unmitigated presence found within; a rejection of social expectations and above all, an EMPOWERING, SELF-GOVERNED FOCUSING OF THE WILL; OF EXERCISING GALVANIZED INTENT in Living with their eating disorders rather than for them.
"This is a gathering point for sentient individuals who are working to cause changes to occur in body in conformity to will. There are no victims here, and maturity is measured in the acceptance of personal responsibility, not the number of birthdays survived.
This is not a place for the faint-hearted, weak, hysterical, or those looking to be rescued. This is not a place for those who bow to consensus definitions of reality or who believe in the cancerous fallacy that there is any other authority on earth besides their own incontrovertibly self-evident, inherent birthright to govern themselves.
This is a place for the elite who, through personal success in their ongoing quest for perfection, demonstrate daily the power and results of applying will, imagination, creativity and effort toward meeting their goals."
--excerpt from Ana's Underground Grotto, original text
NOTE: The Original content has been preserved throughout this Site and will stand for reference herein. Be aware that such material may not reflect our current position on any issue. In lieu of the emergence of the highly disturbing Wanarexic Phenomenon, we have moved the material which we feel is of greatest potential risk to those naive enough to believe that Pro-Ana works should be interpreted literally. We do NOT support the advocacy of pathology! Please keep this in mind when viewing original works posted here. The Grotto and other old texts is now open to read for members only
You must understand that using this website is a PRIVILEGE. It is not a RIGHT. In order to continue using this website, you will abide by the following rules:
For our protection, as well as yours, Project Shapeshift is restricted to persons at or over the age of 18 years. In other words: If you are 18 years of age or older, you are welcome to register! If you are under the age of 18, you will need to contact the Administrator regarding policy and procedure for obtaining formal written consent from your parent/legal guardian.
Moderators of this website are unpaid volunteers. They have offered to donate their time to better this Community, and such altruism will be respected. They are here to ensure that everyone has a safe, sane environment within which to express ideas, opinions, values, and etc. that may (and are likely to) deviate from the mainstream. You are expected to comply with Staff requests and conduct yourself as the mature, sensible individual you are assumed to be.
Members are expected to treat one another with respect and courtesy. Making derogatory, inflammatory or otherwise hurtful comments about another Member is forbidden! First-time violators of this Policy will be warned; subsequent offenses could result in permanent deletion of your Account. Members are prohibited from selling or promoting wares, personal or commercial, unless s/he has the express consent of the Administrator. Promoting other websites is forbidden -- phishing will NOT be tolerated! Spamming/mass-emailing will also result in disciplinary action (warning; suspension or deletion of Account).
All Forum posts are the sentiments and property of the Author and do not necessarily represent any opinions or endorsements of Project Shapeshift. In addition, you may NOT remove or copy any content located on this website without the express consent of its Author. Violation of this rule may result in permanent deletion of your account.
YOU are responsible for what you choose to post on Project Shapeshift. Please remember that this is an Internet Community, and what you post can potentially be read by anyone and everyone. It is up to you to decide what information to disclose. We strongly discourage posting any personal information, such as your real name, address, phone number, or any other personally identifying information.
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