The summer months are filled with social events. From barbecues to pool parties to beach hangs, the dress code often includes shorts, tank tops, bathing suits, or dresses. It makes sense that this is a time when body image anxiety can arise. For anyone who has experienced eating disordered thoughts or a negative self image, the idea of putting on a bathing suit or other summer outfit can be understandably frightening. It can be easy to slip into negative self talk and restrictive eating.
If you find yourself feeling triggered by this season, try to use one of these tools:
Keep a positivity journal:
- Each day, write down something positive about yourself.
- Make a commitment to limiting negative self talk this summer.
Repeat positive affirmations to yourself. Here are some ideas:
- I am lovable in this body.
- Every body is a bathing suit body!
- I accept myself as a beautiful work in progress.
Wear what YOU want. Don’t feel pressure to put on something that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Focus on how the food you are eating is nourishing you. Is it giving you energy? Is it giving you satisfaction?
