HEALTH

 

Some days, even if you're the most confident girl, your self-esteem just ends up in the gutter. Whether it’s because of personal insecurities, bullying that you’ve endured in the past or just being plain old tired and grumpy, it’s not fun. Those negative thoughts are a cycle and, once they start, can be *extremely* hard to break...but not impossible. Below, are some easy, quick ways to boost your body image, stat.

Play with makeup.
If you’re a beauty lover, this is absolutely an amazing choice. Break out the blush and follow along with some YouTube tutorials. Sometimes all it takes to turn around a bad day is a killer red lip.

Take a Zumba class. Zumba can be *ultra* intimidating at first. It might seem like everyone around you knows exactly what they’re doing, but everyone has to start somewhere. Zumba helps you loosen up, and allows you to bust out your best dancing moves while you’re at it. Not your thing? Anything that gets your blood pumping will release endorphins and make you feel better.

Go for a hike. Hiking (or even just a walk outside) is a great way to get you in touch with both your body and the world around you. Sometimes your mind just needs time to reflect and relax, without the constant influences of social media. Remember, though, that if you're going hiking somewhere secluded, to never go alone and always bring adequate food and water.

Journal. Bust out that old journal of yours from elementary school and give this a whirl. Journaling is a great way to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. You don’t have to worry about others judging you because your journal is your own safe space. The first step to improving your body image is to understand the feelings you have about your body, and writing down your thoughts is one place to start.

Play your favorite instrument. Or do whatever hobby you love, whether it's putting together puzzles or painting. Doing things that make you happy, or things that you are good at it, naturally build your confidence.

Volunteer for a cause. Is there something that you feel super passionate about? Brainstorm a way to help. Not only will you be changing the world, you’ll be empowering yourself in the process. And volunteering is an awesome way to distract yourself from those bad body thoughts.

Take a pottery class. Improving your body image doesn’t have always have to be about exercising! If you have a local youth center, then chances are they have a pottery class of some kind or another type of art class. Exploring your creative side will help you focus less on your bod.

Join a theater group. It will help you open up to the world and be confident in yourself. If you feel like you’re too shy or nervous, then maybe just sit in on an acting class, or volunteer to be crew for a stage play. Aside from that, however, it’s an *amazing* way to make friends...and new pals can make you feel loved and valuable, no matter what you feel about your body.

Do you have a favorite that we left off of this list? Sound off in the comments below.

Photo credit: Instagram.

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by Kaila L. | 3/10/2017