With summer only five weeks away, the desire to attain the sought-after “perfect” beach body becomes more pressing. The season of swimsuits and shorts can evoke body image concerns for many, leading to feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety. In fact, according to research conducted through the University of Melbourne, approximately 70% of participants experienced body dissatisfaction during the summer months. It’s essential to remember that summer is about enjoying the warmth, sunshine, and activities that bring you joy. To help navigate body image concerns during summer, it’s important to remember the following:
Shift the Focus away from appearance:
Instead of fixating on achieving a specific body shape or size, aka the “summer bod”, shift your focus towards overall well-being. Embrace the idea that your body is unique and has its own strengths and capabilities – think of what it can do rather than what it looks like. Summer is an excellent time to engage in activities that promote health and vitality, such as outdoor walks, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun (in a sun smart way!).
Wear What Makes You Comfortable:
Summer fashion can be extremely triggering, especially during a time where trends are focused on the early noughties’ era, which let’s be honest, was a very unhealthy time in fashion. It’s crucial to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Fashion is a form of self-expression, and your style should reflect your personality and comfort. If you find shopping to be daunting, take advantage of buying online and trying clothes on in the comfort of your home.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Instead of harsh self-criticism, adopt a mindset of self-love and acceptance. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend facing similar concerns.
Unplug from Unrealistic Standards:
Social media can contribute to unrealistic beauty standards and amplify body image concerns. Research conducted by The Butterfly Foundation in 2022 found that 40% of participants compared themselves to their peers on social media. It’s important to know when to take breaks from scrolling through curated images and feeds. Remember that what you see online often represents a highlight reel rather than the reality of people’s lives. If you need to cull unwanted social connections, it’s okay to delete pages that cause distress. And if you have concerns about friends or family that may trigger you, remember you can always mute them to avoid exposure to their posts.
Focus on Healthy Habits:
Rather than pursuing extreme diets or exercise regimens, focus on cultivating healthy habits that contribute to overall well-being. Enjoy nourishing meals, stay hydrated, and engage in mindful movement that brings you joy. Embrace what summer has to offer with seasonal fruits and vegies, as well as those summer traditions like a beachside Paddlepop. Healthy habits promote a positive relationship with your body and contribute to a more confident and vibrant summer experience.
Surround Yourself with Supportive People:
Build a supportive network of friends and family who celebrate you for who you are. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage positive body image. Take the opportunity to engage in non-appearance based compliments to shift away from placing value on one’s physical appearance.
Seek Professional Support if Needed:
If body image concerns significantly impact your mental well-being, consider seeking professional support – you can reach out to us to discuss your concerns through our 15 minute free consultation. Therapists and counsellors can provide guidance and tools to navigate and overcome negative body image patterns. It’s a proactive step towards cultivating a healthier and more positive perception of self.
Managing body image concerns over the summer involves a holistic approach that prioritizes self-compassion, healthy habits, and a positive mindset. Embrace the uniqueness of your body, focus on overall well-being, and surround yourself with positivity. Remember that summer is a time to savour the joys of the season and create lasting memories, irrespective of societal expectations or perceived body ideals.
