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Developing a healthy body image is possible – Metro US

Developing a healthy body image is possible

This past weekend, sitting on the beach, I heard the clicking of a camera. I looked up and realized that my friend had snapped a funky-angled picture of me in a bikini. My kneejerk reaction was to wrestle the camera out of her hands and delete the photo. In that moment, I witnessed all of my old body image issues resurfacing before my eyes.

No matter what shape or size we are, getting into a bathing suit can be traumatic. With pool parties and beach days ahead, we must face these feelings in order to truly enjoy the summer. To help you overcome your own insecurities, I’ve outlined three steps for a healthy beach body image.

Looking hot is an inside job

We all come in different and unique packages. Accepting what you have is a key component to a healthy body image. Take time to focus on the good stuff and celebrate what you love about your body. Think of the strength in your legs that allows them to climb the steps to the train each morning, or those arms that can steadily juggle groceries and a baby. If you embrace the gifts you’ve been given, you’ll focus less on what you think you don’t have. The sexiest people are those who exude inner beauty and confidence. The more comfortable you are with what you have, the happier you will feel and the more attractive you will become.

Get moving

Whenever I do some kind of exercise before heading to the beach, I always feel more confident in my bikini. Not only does physical exercise immediately tone your body, it also makes you feel great about yourself. If you tend to be uncomfortable getting into your bathing suit, make sure to get in some exercise before you hit the beach.

Beach in good company

One of the best ways to feel confident in your bathing suit is to be around people who make you feel good about yourself. Become more mindful of the company you keep and hang with good folks on the beach. Kind, nonjudgmental friends will make you feel safe — regardless of how little you may be wearing.

— Gabrielle Bernstein is the author of “Spirit Junkie.”

Metro does not endorse the opinions of the author, or any opinions expressed on its pages.