Summer & Bathing Suit Anxiety
With summer in full swing, people have been swapping their heavy layers for shorts, dresses and swimming suits. Summer gives us all a sense of ease—outdoor activities are no longer limited due to the cold, and sunsets can be enjoyed late into the night. However, popular summer activities, like going to the pool or the beach, can create anxiety for some. For those with body image issues and insecurities, wearing a swimming suit isn’t ideal. Even for those comfortable with their bodies, the pressure for women to look ‘sexy’ in a bikini, or for men to look ‘ripped’ while shirtless is the kind of mindset that can lead to toxic behavior.
Wearing whatever swimming suit you want is your choice, and regardless of your decision, it is important to embrace the body you have and let go of false narratives. Here are ways to embrace your body in a swimming suit:
1. Address Your Insecurities
Everyone’s body insecurities are heightened when wearing a swimming suit; you’re a lot more aware of your body because you are wearing less clothing material than you are used to. I remember when I was in high school, one of the things I was aware of was being called a ‘mom’ if I decided to wear a one-piece bathing suit or a tankini. The pressure to show more skin can come from anywhere, whether it’s your classmates, your friends, social media, or news outlets. Regardless of your insecurities or any cultural stigmas you might carry, it is important to wear what is comfortable for you. Something to consider the next time you are on the beach or at the pool, is that everyone has insecurities about their body—so you might as well embrace your body for what it is.
2. Seek Reality Over Inauthenticity
One of the ways social media can negatively impact body image is the exposure to false images displayed by ad companies. According to the article, “What is Body Image?” “Constant bombardment by media images can cause people to feel uncomfortable about their body, leading to distress and ill health.” With that being said, it is important to
separate reality from social media. It is important to be mindful when scrolling through pictures online. Consider the following question: How do I feel when looking at these pictures? For a lot of us, we can fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to our friends or celebrities we see in the media. However, it is important to remind yourself that no one’s body is perfect. “Imperfections” like acne, wrinkles, stretch marks, and freckles are what makes us unique.
3. Embrace Imperfections
The bathing suit industry has never been the most diverse in terms of body inclusion, however some companies are making changes. For example, the brand Aerie has made strides to eliminate retouched photos in their 2014 campaign. Aerie brand representative, Jenny Altman, said that “tattoos, beauty marks, lines, dimples, fat, puckering and slight stretch marks” can all be visible on their models, stating that: “imperfections are clearly on display.” In addition to Aerie, Sports Illustrated introduced their most diverse group of models yet, stating that their models are a “diverse group of women who include professional athletes, entrepreneurs, models, mothers, rookies and swim search contestants.”3 When brands introduce models where young girls can relate and see themselves in them—they will be less likely to resort to comparison and become more comfortable with their bodies.
Swimming suit insecurities should not hold you back from enjoying your time on a pool and beach. Summer is about letting go and enjoying the present moment. So, what are you waiting for? Put on your swimming suit and jump in the pool!