Body Positive Spring Break
Spring break is just around the corner, and for many students, it’s a time of pure excitement! No assignments, no studying—just a week of freedom. But for those dealing with disordered eating, it can be a different story. The pressure to get that ‘spring break body’ can feel overwhelming, especially with friends talking about diets and intense workouts for their trips. But guess what? You don’t have to go down that road. In this blog, we’re here to help you prepare for spring break in a healthier, happier way. Let’s dive in about some mindful tips to keep you feeling confident leading up to your break!
Embrace your body
This time of year can bring up a lot of body image concerns, especially when you’re trying on last season’s clothes that no longer fit or hearing others talk about diets and food. It’s natural to feel insecure as you compare yourself to others or to your past self. But in moments like these, it’s important to reflect on how far you’ve come. If holding onto old clothes triggers negative feelings, consider letting them go and treating yourself to new outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Feeling overwhelmed is normal, so try coping techniques like square breathing to ground yourself and ease any anxiety or stress. Above all, remember that your worth isn’t defined by the numbers on your clothes. Our true value lies in your unique qualities, personality, and strengths, not by the number on a tag.
Reach out for support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by triggering thoughts during all the spring break talk, remember you’ve got a team ready to support you. Reach out to your trusted healthcare professionals, like therapists or dietitians, who can provide insights and strategies to help you through moments of stress and anxiety. Whether you’re at home or on vacation with friends or family, they’re here to provide support, hold you accountable, and assist you in navigating any challenges related to your eating disorder. Feel free to connect with them—your allies—for that extra boost during this time.
Don’t be afraid to take a step back
Spring break might bring a lot of diet and body talk, but here’s the good news: it’s just a temporary phase. Once it’s over, all the diet and body goals talk will be over and everything will go back to normal. So, take a breather, shift your perspective, and keep your focus on what truly matters. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, try meditating, journaling, taking deep breaths, going for a walk, or reaching out to someone in your support network. You’ve got this!
Don’t forget to have fun!
Spring break is a time to disconnect from your responsibilities and just enjoy moments with your loved ones. However, if you’re facing challenges with maintaining a body positive mindset or disordered eating, it might seem daunting. But remember, it’s essential to carve out time for activities you love, whether it’s swimming, hiking, watching a movie, exploring new places, or hiking. Don’t forget to dedicate a little time each day just for you, whether it’s a cozy nap, quiet reflection, or journaling. Prioritizing these moments of self-care can make a world of difference in your well-being and recovery journey.
