Embracing Your Body This Summer: Wear What Makes You Feel Comfortable

Summer is approaching, and with it comes the annual flood of "beach body" messaging that can make even the most confident person feel a bit of self-doubt. But here's a thought: Your body is already a beach body. Yes, exactly as it is right now.

The Real Meaning of "Bikini Season"

Let's reframe what "bikini season" really means. It's not about fitting into society's narrow definition of the perfect beach body – it's about enjoying the warmth of the sun, the joy of outdoor activities, and the freedom to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Your Comfort, Your Choice, sis!

The most beautiful thing you can wear this summer isn't a particular swimsuit style or cover-up – it's confidence. Whether you feel most comfortable in:

• A bikini that shows your beautiful curves

• A one-piece that makes you feel elegant

• High-waisted bottoms that give you security

• Board shorts and a tank top

• A full-coverage swimdress

• Or anything else that brings you joy

The choice is yours, and every choice is valid.

Over a decade ago I was a full-time personal trainer and I am guilty of promoting “let’s get that body bikini ready!” As I’ve lived, I’ve learned a little…

We've been conditioned to believe we need to "prepare" our bodies for summer, as if we need permission to exist in warmer weather. But here's the truth: Your body doesn't need to be "ready" for summer – it needs to be loved and accepted in all seasons.

So, let’s switch to a more gracious way of preparing for Summer, shall we?

1. Practice Daily Appreciation

Take a moment each day to thank your body for something it does for you. Maybe it's the strength to carry your groceries, the ability to hug your loved ones, or simply the miracle of breathing.

2. Choose Comfort Over Conformity

When selecting your summer wardrobe, make your first priority how the clothing makes you feel. Physical comfort often leads to emotional confidence.

3. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Follow social media accounts that celebrate diverse body types and promote genuine self-love. Unfollow or mute content that makes you feel less-than.

4. Create New Associations

Instead of focusing on how your body looks in summer clothes, focus on the memories you're creating. The laughter shared with friends, the joy of swimming on a hot day, the peace of a sunset beach walk or one of my personal faves, enjoying an icy drink from the comfort of my couch with the AC on!

Your body is not a project to be fixed. It's not a problem to be solved. It's the incredible vessel that carries you through life, enables you to experience the world, and deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.

This summer, let's make a pact: to wear what makes us feel good, to support others in doing the same, and to remember that every body is a summer body. Because true beauty isn't about fitting into a certain size or style – it's about fitting comfortably and confidently in your own skin.

Let's make this the summer of self-love, acceptance, and freedom to be authentically ourselves.

Yours in self-love,

Najwa