Trigger warning. This post talks about dieting, weight and body image.
You may have noticed that your wardrobe changes from season to season. Warm weather often means less or lighter clothing compared to the layers that keep you warm in the winter. Although we are still a few months away from summer, it's worth the discussion of how your body image impacts a warm weather getaway.
If you struggle with body image issues, you may find yourself hyper aware of your body in anticipation for your upcoming vacation. You may fear wearing a swimsuit or having your photo taken. You may worry about systemic fatphobia issues during travel and begin to internalize messages that your body isn't good enough. You may begin to "body check" things like your weight, size or shape. You may suddenly begin to compare yourself to other people, likely making you feel inadequate. Anytime you feel heightened awareness of your body, you may feel the urge to diet or overexercise in order to change the way that you look.
The truth is that many people deal with body image issues before and during a vacation. If you can identify, you are not alone. However, while you may not be able to fully change your relationship with your body before your next vacation, you can prepare in a way that fosters a better relationship with your body.
- Packing - You deserve to wear clothes that you feel most comfortable in and work for the climate of your vacation and the types of activities that you will be partaking in during your trip. It's best to pack a few different options - some with a looser fit and some that fit you just right - so you can decide the best option for your "today" body. Dress in a way that makes you feel good, not how you think those clothing items make your body look.
- Prepare for triggers - Recognize the possible triggers that may cause you to experience body image issues. For example, when trying on clothing, shop for your today body. The body you have right now deserves to be properly dressed in clothes that make you feel good. Don't focus on the size but instead, what feels best on your body. Don't assign meaning to any numbers. It doesn't tell you anything about who you are as a person. You may want to avoid social media for a few weeks if you find that comparing yourself to others triggers negative body image issues.
- Nobody cares - That bully in your head may never go away so you need to actively fight those negative body thoughts. The truth is that the important people in your life support you and care about you. They want you to be happy. As for everyone else, they don't care and they don't matter. Let go of what you think other people think about your body.
- Be in the moment - Don't miss out on the fun events with friends and family because you hate the way that you look. Hating the way you look takes away the energy you have to make memories. Be proud of your body and what it allows you to do. A vacation is a special time, not a time to fuel your insecurities. Don't regret the moments and memories that you can experience now.
- Boost your self-esteem - Society has taught us to hold onto an (unrealistic) idea of what we should look like and when our self-image doesn't match the standard, we feel the need to fix the parts that don't measure up. Having a body that you are proud of is an ongoing process but you shouldn't let your now body hold you back from enjoying a vacation and the people around you.