Michigan greeted me with subzero temperatures as I left the house, my bikini was the last thing on my mind. In fact I had an overpowering urge to be back under my down comforter and I wished for two more layers of socks. I am sure many of us feel this way as winter seems endless but it really is time to get out that bathing suite!
For me bathing suit season has always been a reward for hard work or a body image nightmare. Unlike the magazines who start sporting “lose 10 pounds before summer” claims in late April, I NEED MORE TIME!
It’s the start of February now, if a person loses ½ pound per week, which is very modest, by June 1st they would show an 8.5 pound loss. With a bit more work, setting a goal for 1 pound a week that would trim you 17 pounds by June. Many of us have an intimate relationship with procrastination but in the preparation for swimsuit season many (me included) need to get ahead of the game.
How do you get in the summer mindset when Jack Frost is giving you a good pummeling? First, dig out your swimwear, or favorite summer shorts. Find out how they fit and get a realistic assessment of how much Holiday weight you may have acquired. I like to keep these things out so they are a visual reminder of where we are heading when I open my closet.
Second, get in the summer mindset. Sometimes it is helpful to count days, like an advent to summer. Keeping track on you calendar may be encouraging now that winters half over. Pull out pictures from last summer or take a peek at vacation brochures. Start planning the fun and it will get you excited and in a sunny mindset.
Third, make a game plan. If you only have a few pounds to lose you can find a few things to trim from you diet, or start regularly hitting the gym. If you like me who always seems to pack on 10-20 pounds over the winter, you may need a more aggressive approach. Find a diet that is healthier than what you’re currently eating. One of my favorites is the Low GI eating plan, of course consulting with your physician is the best way to decide on an eating plan that’s best for you. Then find an activity level that burns more calories that you currently do, the littlest bit helps. The more you move the more you burn!
With every degree the thermometer climbs we get closer to swimsuit season. For me that is my favorite time of year so I know I am going to make preparations now so I can kick back with the sun on my face this summer!
