Summer is finally here! A time to embrace all the fun that sunny weather brings; cookouts, picnics, swimming pools, gardens, sunsets, walks, and beach days! Such a sweet time to build lasting memories with our kids, our friends, and our families.

The one downside to this fun, sunny season is that it can come with a lot of pressure to look a certain way, especially in swimsuits. Shopping for them alone can cause a cascade of negative thoughts. But as we know, these thoughts can cause a lot of frustration and even set us back in our health journeys. As someone who has struggled with this, I can confidently say the best I have ever felt about my body is when I have viewed it as something to be loved and taken care of. As something to be thankful for and to nourish and preserve. I think this is something we might have to keep coming back to year after year as a good reminder! So, here are a few ideas on how to stay positive this swimsuit season! 

1. Focus on Gratitude for our Amazing, Capable Bodies!

Instead of being hyper-focused on what our body looks like, let’s replace those thoughts with what our bodies can do. Whether it’s dancing, walking, caring for your loved ones, cooking, creating a piece of art, writing a novel, doing a motivational speech, or birthing a child, our bodies are truly amazing! Let’s celebrate that!

2. Care for Your Body

If we view our bodies as something to be grateful for, then we will start caring for our bodies with love and compassion. Do something every day to show your body love! Eat a healthy snack, go for a walk, or take a minute to just breathe and give yourself grace. We only get one body in this lifetime, let’s love it well!

3. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences

The people we surround ourselves with, the images we see, and the videos we watch, all have a HUGE impact on our lives. Choose people to follow on social media or spend time with, who uplift you, support you, and celebrate your uniqueness. 

4. Dress for You

Too often we get caught up in what other people might think of us when in reality the only opinion that truly matters is our own. Also, most people would rather be around someone who is authentic, caring, joyful, and confident anyway. So find a suit that helps you be yourself! 

5. Safe Suit, Fun Accessories

Maybe you find a suit that is comfortable but not your favorite, then spruce it up with accessories! Express yourself with some fun retro sunglasses, a vintage floppy hat, or a colorful cover-up! Focus on letting your personality shine through! And most importantly, have fun with it! 

6. Change Your Perspective: Enjoy the Experience 

When you are older, looking back on your life, will you remember how you looked in a swimsuit or will you remember the experiences? I’m sure no one will regret not being bikini ready but instead will regret not being more present. So let’s focus on all the beautiful, small moments. The sun on our faces, the taste of sweet watermelon, the sound of birds chirping, and the smile on our loved ones’ faces. These are the days, these are our people. Let’s soak them up!

So much love for you ladies! Be positive, be you! And always enjoy the journey!
Hannah Koschak, RD, CD