Small Ways to Feel More Confident on the Beach
Summer is a season of fun, but it can also amplify insecurities. As your Instagram fills up with bikini-ready bodies, you might feel less confident about hitting the beach. Fortunately, there are simple yet powerful ways to boost your confidence. Here’s how you can make the most of your beach trip.
Embrace Your Insecurities
Insecurities are a natural part of life. However, there are things you can do to avoid drowning in these negative feelings. Where do they come from? Think about why you are not confident going to the beach.
Focus on yourself. When you acknowledge where your insecurities come from, you can slowly start to work on them. Affirmations can also help you see yourself in a good light. Saying “I love myself” is a powerful way to ward off self-deprecating thoughts if they get too overwhelming.
Wear a Swimsuit You Feel Comfortable In
Clothes are powerful. Choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Do you feel more beautiful in a one-piece or a high-waisted bottom with a crocheted top? Do you prefer full coverage to triangle bikinis? Don’t worry about your body type — with countless options, patterns, and cuts available in the market, you will find a flattering suit to boost your confidence.
Observe Body Diversity at the Beach
Look at the people at the beach. After a while, you’ll realize it isn’t full of people with flawless makeup and perfect body proportions.
Movies and media feed people unrealistic pictures of what being at the beach looks like, so don’t let these perceptions become your reality. The people with visible stretch marks and individuals with various skin colors who you’ll see can help you realize there’s a place for everyone at the beach, including you.
Be Prepared
Studies show that vacations help reduce stress, which can be even more effective if you go into your trip feeling confident.
Preparation can help you feel and look your best. Exfoliate your skin, get a hair treatment or apply makeup if it means feeling better about yourself.
Remember to take protection from the sun with you as well. Here’s how to do it:
Use sunscreen: UV rays can cause sunburns, skin damage, and premature aging. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 to combat these harmful effects.
Wear protective clothing: Sunglasses and a wide-brim hat help protect your face and eyes under the sun. Consider wearing cover-ups if you have sensitive skin.
Surround Yourself With Supportive People
When you have a support system, you’re more likely to feel encouraged to face challenges. Head to the beach with family and friends who encourage you to be authentic. Avoid spending time with people who compare their bodies or body shame.
Remember You’re Not Alone
Swimsuit anxiety is a widespread concern. Even imagining wearing a swimsuit can worsen your mood and body image. It might not be easy, but shifting your focus from how you look to enjoying the beach, food, and company of your loved ones can make a big difference.
Every Body Is a Beach Body
Feeling confident in the summer can be challenging, especially when everyone is flaunting their favorite swimsuits. However, there are ways you can make beach trips enjoyable regardless of your size or age. Follow these tips to have a happier, more confident time at the beach — just as you deserve.
Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She has a passion for writing about ways to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life, especially for new moms.