Summer is the time to de-stress, unwind, and feel free with less academic obligations and way more free time. Much time is spent outside enjoying the sun and warmer weather and with that less clothing is worn. As it is 2016, as a society we are becoming more accepting of different body types and the ideology that we are all different and that is okay. It is very common to feel uncomfortable sporting your body on the beach or outdoors in general when we compare ourselves to others. But summer is meant to be lived care free and if we hold ourselves back because we think we do not fit the ideal appearance to rock what we got on the beach, then something needs to be said.

The beach is not home to one size or one look. All that is necessary to rock something on the beach is confidence. So if you are disappointed by your presence then know that you don’t have to be beach bummed because of your outlook. Once you change your perception that you are adequate to strut the beach just like everyone else, then not only does it become a lot easier to be yourself but also it gets a lot easier to like who you are without having to change. Once we realize that we are all actually looking and aiming at the same unrealistic style of body that would probably be difficult for us to attain anyway (depending on how your body is built of course) then we can stop striving for what we think is ideal and start trying to accept what we have and build our confidence from there. The beach is welcoming of all different shapes, sizes, colors, ages, everything. Every size is beautiful and everyone is welcome at the beach the way they are.

This is also the same for bathing suits. Despite popular advertising, bikinis aren’t just built for smaller people. There are no prerequisites for any bathing suit the same way you can go to the beach just the way you are. A bathing suit is not just reserved for certain body types. Bathing suits have no limitations. If you think it looks good on you, then it is for your body. It doesn’t matter what it is, it matters how you wear it. So even if you’re nervous to go to the beach with friends and see people you know, and still don’t feel too comfortable, just know that even the people you wished you looked like want something they don’t have. Take your time with accepting your body. And have some fun in the sun.