Most people I know have a love-hate relationship with summer.
On the less-bright side, summer is loaded withbody image triggers.
And despite the growing movement towardbody acceptance, theres still plenty of cultural pressure to slim down for summer.
Taisiia Iaremchuk/Getty Images
Challenge your negative body image thoughts and have a go at reframe them.
Reword, reframe, and rename anything that includes language of judgment, resentment, or disdain.
An example: Youre shopping for a bathing suit.
Think of it as a quick love letter to your body.
Find summer clothes that fitand dont blame yourself when something you try on doesnt work.
Does the thought of buying new summer clothes make you anxious?
Its essential to recognize that it’s not you; it’s them!
Fashion trends constantly change and historically overlook the needs (and sizes) of the average consumer.
To even the score, I recommend learning to appreciate your body in its current state.
Set boundaries with loved ones around body talk.
Thats why I suggestusing mindfulnessto observe your self-critical thoughts and recognize that theyre just that: thoughts.
Theyre not the ultimate truth, and theyre only temporary.
Imagine the freedom of having this same focus for yourself.
Dr. Charryse Johnson
7.
Resist the urge to disconnect from others because of how you feel about your body.
Say yes to the block party invitation.
The goal is to learn to unapologetically exist and be seen, even while navigating body dissatisfaction.
The perfect body is the one youre in, so show up this summer and live on purpose.
Dr. Charryse Johnson
8.
Dont feel like you should be working to improve your body image all the time.
If this allows me to get outside, thats meaningful to me.
Not every moment has to be about growing or changing or fixing.
Its also okay to just be.
Mimi Cole
9.
Do whats best for you in any given momentwhether thats challenging yourself or making yourself more comfortable.
At the same time, my friend puts on a cover-up and lounges with her head in a book.
Most people I know do something in between.
On a bad body image day, do whats best for you.
(PS: you’re able to change your mind any time of any day!)
