5 steps to loving yourself in the buff no matter your body type
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Unfortunately, we can't all be blessed with the long, lithe limbs, miniscule waist and perky boobs of, say, Cameron Diaz (check out her celebrity style here), but that's no reason to hide shamefully under a mu-mu or full-body swimsuit. We say dare to go bare! After all, you only live once, and body confidence is an important key to both looking and feeling good.
We get some tips from Connie Sobczak, co-founder of California-based The Body Positive, an organization helping people overcome body dissatisfaction. That's right; it is possible to love those thighs. Here's how to get started.
1. Stop negative thinking
Sobczak suggests paying attention to what you're saying about your body in your head. "When you hear a negative tone, stop yourself." You have to honour who you are right now, in the present, not who you think you ought to be if you were a few pounds thinner.
Think about it this way: What would be going through your head if your partner suggested sex with all the lights on? If you're not happy with your body, chances are the romp will be anything but hot and heavy. You'll be too busy worrying about cellulite to relax and enjoy the ride. Trust us, an amazing orgasm trumps worries about hip-width or butt dimples any day!
2. Key into confidence
You've heard it before, but the fact that happiness doesn't come from being a size zero is worth reiterating. "It's not what you look like, it's your life-force that attracts others," explains Sobczak. "The more confident you are, the more people will be attracted to you, regardless of your waist-size."
We're not saying a short skirt combined with long legs won't attract attention, but in the end, if you exude the self-confidence and energy of a genuinely happy person, people won't see you as fat or thin, Sobczak says. People will be attracted to what you have to offer -- your thoughts, ideas, sense of humour and intelligence. And a big bonus to feeling confident is that not only will you feel great in the buff, but you'll also look and feel fabulous in your new Arthur Mendonca ensemble. Forget that studded clutch; confidence is the new 'it' accessory!
Learn how to make healthy choices on the next page ...
