Blue skies, beaches and bikinis are in touching distance, but summer can be a very daunting time for many of us – and the panic to get ‘beach body ready’ looms. Despite great strides in the body positivity movement, many still feel the pressure to achieve unrealistic societal beauty standards – such as chiselled abs and glowing, sun-kissed skin – before daring to enjoy the beach. Social media and adverts often perpetuate these ‘ideals’, which lead many people to turn to extreme diets and fitness regimes at this time of year.
But, nobody should have to change their physique in order to enjoy the sea and sunshine – we’re all ‘beach body ready’ just as we are. Sometimes, it’s just our minds that aren’t quite ready. So, here are five tips to help us all feel fabulous on holiday this summer, no matter our shape or size.
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Focus on all the wonderful things your body can do “Focus on what your body can do, rather than how it looks,” says Lowri Dowthwaite-Walsh, psychotherapist and senior lecturer in psychological interventions at the University of Central Lancashire . “Building strength in your body by engaging in physical activity and exercise that you enjoy can make you appreciate your body more, and in turn build body confidence,” she adds. “Weight-bearing exercise, yoga, swimming, running and dancing are all great options.
” Dr Laura Geige, a medical doctor and psychologist, also believes promoting an internal dialogue that emphasises body.
