Don't let Bathing Suit Season Get the Best of You

By Donna Stark

Summer is right around the corner, and for many people, so is anxiety. Warmer days mean more outdoor activities, and one of the most popular activities in the summer is swimming. So what does swimming have to do with anxiety? Well, swimming means it is bathing suit season, and bathing suit season is never on anybody’s list of favorites. Neither is dieting. So unless you reside in a climate that affords you the opportunity to spend your days living in a suit, and you look good doing so, be prepared to have some anxiety-induced moments.

The Dreaded Bathing Suit Season

If dieting is not on your radar, but you want to “firm up” a bit, there are some simple things you can do that will have you looking fabulous in your suit … and just in time for that beach vacation! Here they are:

• Cook at home – Try to avoid eating out at all costs and cook your meals at home. Make sure you are filling up on a healthy breakfast before you head out the door, pack your lunch, and focus on creating a nutrient-dense dinner for later in the evening. Bring your own snacks from home to eat throughout the day and avoid the usual morning coffee run for that very decadent caffeine treat.
• Fill up on fruit and veggies – Try to keep your snacking limited to fruits and veggies. Besides being extremely healthy, they will also keep you satisfied for a longer time than what a handful of chips would. Veggies require a lot of chewing as well, so you will automatically slow down and eat less.
• Exercise – Move your body! Take in an extra class or night at the gym, count your steps, go for a bike ride, or grab a friend and take a walk early in the morning. It’s a great way to lose or maintain your weight and it’s more productive than simply choosing a diet soda over a regular one.
• Avoid hidden calories – Speaking of sodas … don’t drink your calories! Make wise choices during this time of year and choose beverages that have little to no calories in them. Water, black coffee, and plain tea are some great examples that you can choose over the lattes, sodas, and slushies.

Bathing suit season does not have to put you in a negative spiral that you have no hope of recovering from. It’s a perfect time to create wonderful memories with your loved ones and you are going to want to be there. So get ready, extend the extra little bit of effort, and stay committed to the suit. If it helps, you can also keep picturing yourself on that warm, sandy beach.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denver, Colo.