As temperatures rise and beach trips fill your calendar, so does the pressure to achieve the elusive “summer body.” For decades, we’ve been fed the idea that our bodies must look a certain way to be worthy of shorts, swimsuits, or self-confidence. But here’s the truth: the concept of a “summer body” is a myth, one rooted in unrealistic beauty standards and harmful comparisons. Every body is a summer body—and this season, it’s time to start believing it.
Where Did the “Summer Body” Come From?
The term “summer body” has long been pushed by media, marketing campaigns, and the fitness industry, often implying that we must shrink, tone, or “fix” ourselves to fit into a narrow definition of attractiveness. This messaging is not only outdated but damaging. It fuels body dissatisfaction, promotes disordered eating, and can seriously impact our mental well-being.
The good news? People are waking up to the lie. Body positivity, body neutrality, and self-acceptance movements are growing louder, reminding us that we don’t need to change our appearance to enjoy life—or summer.
Embracing Yourself: What It Really Means
True self-acceptance isn’t about ignoring your health or never wanting to grow—it’s about treating yourself with kindness and respect at every stage. Embracing yourself this summer means:
- Wearing what you love, not what hides you. That swimsuit? Wear it. Those shorts you’ve been avoiding? Rock them. Your comfort and confidence matter more than anyone’s opinion.
- Focusing on how you feel, not how you look. Movement, sunlight, and fresh air are for everyone—not just those who fit a certain aesthetic.
- Letting go of comparisons. Social media often shows curated, filtered images that don’t reflect reality. Remind yourself that your worth is not tied to someone else’s highlight reel.
Real Ways to Embrace Yourself This Season
Here are some practical steps to help you embrace your body and your life this summer:
1. Unfollow the Noise
Your social media feed plays a big role in how you see yourself. Take a few minutes to unfollow accounts that make you feel “less than.” Replace them with body-positive creators, mental health advocates, and people who celebrate diversity in shape, size, and skin.
2. Speak Kindly to Yourself
Self-talk has power. When you catch yourself thinking negatively about your body, pause and reframe. Try saying: “My body is strong and worthy,” or “I deserve to enjoy summer no matter how I look.” These small mindset shifts add up over time.
3. Move for Joy, Not Punishment
Exercise should never be a punishment for eating or a means to “earn” food. Instead, find ways to move your body that feel fun and freeing—dancing, hiking, swimming, or simply taking a walk in the sun. Movement can boost your mood and confidence without being tied to weight loss goals.
4. Set Boundaries
If someone in your life talks constantly about diets, calories, or body size, it’s okay to set boundaries. You can gently change the subject or say, “I’m trying to focus on feeling good in my body, not changing it.”
5. Practice Presence
Don’t miss out on summer memories because you’re worried about how you look. Say yes to the pool party. Join the group photo. Jump in the ocean. Years from now, you’ll remember the laughter, the freedom, and the fun—not your appearance.
Redefining Summer
Summer isn’t a reward for having a certain body type. It’s a season meant to be lived, loved, and experienced fully—just as you are. By letting go of the pressure to look a certain way, you give yourself the gift of freedom: to swim without shame, to laugh without judgment, and to exist without apology.
So ditch the myth, embrace the moment, and remember that your body is not the problem. The problem is a culture that told you otherwise for so long. Let us at Manhattan Wellness help you to rewrite this script – our expert therapists are well trained in how to help you adjust your body image. Schedule a free consultation today so we can support you on your journey to your best self.
THERAPY SERVICES WE OFFER IN MANHATTAN & BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
At Manhattan Wellness, we know that setting boundaries can be incredibly empowering—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Whether you’re navigating relationships, family dynamics, work stress, or simply learning to prioritize your own needs, the process of creating and holding boundaries can feel overwhelming.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our team is here to help you build the confidence and clarity you need to set boundaries that support your well-being and align with your values.
Ready to take the next step? Here’s how:
- Get Support As You Find Your Path!
- Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Learn More About Our Team of Therapists and Our Therapy Specialists
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WITH THERAPY FOR WOMEN IN BROOKLYN & MANHATTAN, NEW YORK
At Manhattan Wellness, we understand that with all the messages we receive from the world, it can be difficult to maintain a positive narrative about ourselves. From social media, movies, and even people close to us, it can be hard to drown out the negative. So much so that our inner critic takes over and we forget to show ourselves the same compassion as others. That’s why our female therapists want to support you in building the confidence you need to reach your highest potential. Let us help you create an empowering narrative that will benefit all aspects of your life, from personal to professional. If you are interested in beginning counseling for women:
- Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Learn More About Our Team and Our Areas of Expertise
- Begin Seeing Yourself in a Whole New Light!
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES OFFERED IN MANHATTAN, WESTCHESTER BROOKLYN, & THROUGHOUT NEW YORK
At Manhattan Wellness, our therapists are here to support you in navigating this journey and reclaiming your identity. So you can take control of your life and create the future you’ve been dreaming of. This is why we offer a variety of services to ensure you get the support, care, and guidance necessary. The therapy services we offer are Self-Esteem Counseling and Anxiety Treatment, along with Dating/Relationship Counseling, Counseling for College Students, and more. Feel as if you are not living the life you deserve? Let’s talk about it.
