by Talia Murphy

Created on: May 08, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Summertime and the living is easy. Or is it? It depends on how you feel about your body and whether you're comfortable exposing more of it. It may bring out all of those bad feelings you have about yourself for not going on that diet earlier, or for not going to the gym like you promised yourself you would, so you'd be able to get into that swimsuit. It can be downright depressing!

Are you up for a new approach? Look in the yellow pages and find a yoga studio near your home. Yoga, unlike working out at a gym, is gentle and nurturing. It is also the very best thing you can do for your body and for your mind.

If there are no yoga classes in your town, go on-line and find a CD for beginners. Invite a friend or a few friends to the class. Make it the same time and the same day of the week. Your goal is to become accustomed to your routine.

When you do find a studio, don't pick the upscale, trendy one in town. Your goal is to find a comfortable atmosphere that is non-threatening. Find a smaller studio that has a variety of women of all ages and body types.

Goal #1. Start a journal.

This will get you in a mindset for change. Buy an inexpensive spiral notebook. This journal is absolutely and positively for your eyes only. Do not look back on what you've written. Sit with your journal in a quiet place, preferably in the morning. Start writing whatever pops into your head. Don't stop until you have completed three pages every day. Every day. This is your most important goal.

The intent of this exercise is to clear away the negative, judgmental, fragmented thoughts that fill up your heads. We have a tendency to believe these thoughts, even when they may not be real or valid or rational. They sabotage our self esteem and keep us from becoming the creative, productive people we wish to be.

Goal #2. Show up for your first yoga class.

Go to your first yoga class and every time you complete Goal #1 and #2, applaud yourself. You do not have to push yourself. If you have any discomfort, stop and give yourself a break. Take a few slow breaths and then continue when you're ready. Don't watch those around you, focus on yourself and your own journey.

Goal #3. Make it fun.

Ask a friend to start the class with you or make some new friends. Suggest meeting after class for coffee. Make this routine one that you look forward to each week.

Goal #4. Take note of how you feel about your body.

Through stretching, your body becomes accustomed to relaxed movement and you will feel younger and more alive. It is actually energizing. Over time, it changes your relationship with your body. As you become more comfortable with moving, you begin to be at ease around other people in a new fashion mode, which will later impact how you dress.

Goal #5. Begin watching what you eat and enjoy the increased vitality you are now beginning to experience.

So many things that are labeled low fat are actually loaded with sugar and salt. While you're there, pick up the free magazines and literature on health and nutrition. Start wearing pretty colors and clothes that accentuate your personal style. You'll enjoy the compliments you get from friends and family. Accentuate your positive attributes. If you have beautiful eyes, wear a little more eye makeup to compliment them. If you have beautiful skin, moisturize daily and use a bronzer or dust yourself with some iridescent powder. Show off your arms or legs a little more. Get out and dance and enjoy the new you!

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