by Melanie Hicks

Created on: May 06, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Women come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but that doesn't mean they are any less beautiful. As a mother of 2 (soon to be 3) I realize that there really is no way to live up to the "standards" that are constantly glorified in the media today. I am 21 years old and the smallest I have been since 9th grade is a size 20. I've tried everything to lose weight and achieve that "perfect body" but sometimes diets don't work too well. There are some ways that I have learned through the years on how to feel on the inside how you want to look on the outside.

I have found that when I am more active, I have more energy and just feel better in general. Go for walks with your family or friends at local parks or nature trails. Not only will you get to enjoy the beauty of the nature around you, but exercise increases endorphins which makes you feel happy. Another way to have some fun in the summer is to go swimming. I know the thought of being in a bathing suit in public makes some people cringe, but once you find the perfect swimsuit, you'll feel like the goddess you are.

Picking out the right swimsuit can be kind of tricky. Every time I would go swimming I would cover my swimsuit with a t-shirt and a pair of shorts. Well what's the point of buying a swimsuit if you're just gonna wear regular clothes to swim in anyway? Instead, buy a bathing suit that you feel good in and just wrap a sarong or drape a beach towel around your waist. That will cover up your tummy and thighs (if that is your problem area) but will still look flattering. However, you may not be the swimming type but that doesn't mean you shouldn't still have fun.

One of the activities that I enjoy the most is shopping. I rarely have the money to go shopping anymore, but that doesn't mean that I don't occasionally indulge just a little. When shopping for clothes don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone a little. For example, you may be afraid to buy that spaghetti strap top, but you should try it on; you may find that it makes you feel good and you even look good wearing it! Does the thought of anything sleeveless make you uncomfortable? Try a fitted sleeveless tee instead of a shapeless, unflattering one. No matter what though, always make sure you have properly fitting pants/shorts/skirts. You'd be surprised at how big of a difference it makes when something doesn't fit you properly. For this reason I always take a trusted friend or family member with me as a second opinion.

Shopping not for you? Maybe you should pamper yourself for a day. Get a manicure, facial, pedicure, or a makeover. Sometimes its the little things that make a big difference in the way you feel. Right before prom I got my nails done and I can't believe how great I felt. I didn't want to take them off!

These are just a few things you can do this summer to feel like the goddess you are on the inside. Just remember to have fun and be safe no matter what yo choose to do!

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