Written by: Caitlin Alfonso, LMSW
As summer kicks off, some people might be feeling discouraged. Maybe they are thinking about how they didn’t get their “summer body” just the way they wanted it or they’re worried about their skin being too dark from the sun or not tan enough. This is your friendly reminder that those unkind thoughts are messages often portrayed in the media, but they do not deserve your energy or time!
Spoiler alert: Your body is your summer body! Your body that you have, in this very moment, is enough! Your body that you have is a beautiful summer body!
Now, with that being said, there are some summer body self-care tips to be particularly mindful about during the warmer and sunnier summer months. Check these out:
Protect Your Skin
Summertime often means more time in the sun. Hats and sunscreen are two great tools for skin protection. Contrary to some beliefs, all skin tones—even darker skin tones—need to use sunscreen. While some people may feel that they “don’t burn”, sunscreen protects skin from absorbing harmful UV rays that can lead to skin cancer. Sunscreens have different SPF protections, and ingredients—which also impacts if they are reef-friendly, making them much safer for our sea life friends and environment too. Therefore, be particularly mindful of choosing a sunscreen that is right for you and your summer activity! Remember, you may need to wait a few minutes after applying your sunscreen before splashing into the water and it’s also important reapply sunscreen as recommended.
Switch Up Your Exercise Routines and Activities
Depending on where you live, summer might be super-hot or it might be the best outdoor time of the year—either way, it’s a great time to switch things up! If the summer months are too hot to be outdoors and you have some pool connections, consider doing more water-based exercise time. It’s also a great opportunity to explore different kinds of fitness classes that you have been interested in, but maybe couldn’t work in with your schedule due to school obligations. Check out your local Parks and Rec, as they often offer more affordable summer classes! On the flip side, if you live in a state where summer is inviting to be outdoors than switch up that gym routine and see what you can do outside, like: hiking, jogging with friends, bike riding, jump roping–the possibilities are endless!
Wear Clothes for Your Body
Summer comes with its own fashion, but the best year-round fashion trend is confidence. So, wear clothes that you like, that fit your body, and make you smile. When we wear clothes that we love and love putting on, we naturally feel and project confidence!
Hydrate and Rest
Take care of your summer body from the inside out! Replenishing on H2O helps your body operate physically, keeps your mind sharp, and helps with your skin care! Also, as much as summer is meant to be fun, it is also a time meant to rest, relax, and recover. Therefore, find that balance and give your summer body the downtime it deserves.
All in all, summer is a time for self-care and self-love. Your body is your summer body, and it is beautiful and perfect just the way it is! So, love on your summer body by taking care of it, as it takes care of you throughout all your fun (and restful) summer days!
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Caitlin Alfonso is a lover of coffee, reading, traveling and her dog, Remy. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker and owner of Acornic Consulting, LLC.