Take a social media break to avoid body negativity

A trip to the beach or lake can often leave people worried about how they look.

If you’re feeling insecure about putting on a swimsuit this summer, you’re not alone. A lot of people worry about their appearance.

Social media doesn’t help either, according to Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist with Cleveland Clinic. In the summer, our feeds are often filled with photos of people in swimsuits, and that can cause some to compare themselves to others.

To help combat those kinds of negative thoughts, Albers suggested taking a break from social media or only following body positive accounts instead.

She suggested taking part in activities and hobbies that bring you joy, then you’re not as focused on your appearance.

It is important to remember to be kind to yourself.

“Your body is listening to you. Speak to your body as if you are talking to a friend or a child. When you speak negatively to your body, it releases cortisol, the stress hormone in the body, and your body responds. So being compassionate and talking to your body with positive words helps to boost your self-esteem and your body image,” she said.

Kids are always listening, explained Alberts, so if they hear you talking negatively about your body, they may start to do the same.