The feminine form comes in various shapes and every shape is worthy and deserving of love and attention. Here’s how you can ramp up your confidence
Sweat it out!
Whether or not you are working out in accordance with a weight-goal plan, exercise is a necessary part of a healthy schedule. Why? Because endorphins are real!
Known to trigger a positive feeling, endorphins are chemicals that are naturally released by your body after physical stimulation. Endorphins have an analgesic effect, meaning that they help relieve you of post-workout aches and pains! Other than the physical benefits such as improved blood circulation, organ stimulation and muscle strengthening, regular exercise is known to provide key psychological benefits such as decreased stress and improved self-esteem.
So the next time you feel frustrated looking at the scale, remember that giving up is not an option, and you are exercising not just for your appearance, but for your overall mental and physical health.
Dress for your body type
Don’t get caught up with fashion fads that may not flatter your body type, and instead identify which types of clothing and fabric feel comfortable and look good on you.
For example, if you have a small waist with wide hips, consider wearing dark pencil skirts that can make you look more symmetrical. You might also opt for fabrics that drape and skim rather than cling. If you have an athletic-build with broad shoulders, V-necks can help you balance out your shoulders by drawing the eye to the centre of your torso.
It’s also important to invest in the right undergarments; even movie stars wear body-shaping underwear under their red-carpet dresses, proving that everyone could do with a little help! Get yourself measured for the correct bra size to ensure you get ample lift and support so that anything you throw on afterwards instantly looks good.
Treat yourself with “feel pretty” habits
Your body is more than just your dress size; it is also your skin, posture, and overall image. Foster positive feelings about yourself with some regular effort.
For example, pamper your skin occasionally by exfoliating your face and body. You certainly don’t need expensive spa treatments or facials; simply finding the time and the right products for your skin type can help you have your “feel pretty me-time” without busting the bank. And why not go the extra mile and even get your hair and nails done whether or not there is a special occasion?
Eat well
Food can do wonders not just for your body, but for your mood as well.
Regular overeating and bingeing on junk food and can lead to a vicious cycle of guilt, sluggishness and lack of concentration.
There are a few hacks that can fast-track you to healthy eating: for example, increase your fibre intake by piling on fruits and vegetables at meal times; and swap out sugary beverages such as processed juice and soda for at least two litres of plain water daily. With a balanced diet involving all food groups, you will enjoy an improved immune system, bowel health and higher energy levels that can help you be more productive and confident.
When indulging, remember that moderation is always key; eating healthy should be a habit rather than a phase.
Think positive – and celebrate yourself!
Celebrate your talents and pursue hobbies you enjoy with likeminded people; break away from the regular grind of work and home life with activities such as reading clubs, friendly sporting gatherings in your town or neighbourhood, and many more!
Whether you want to enlist family and friends to support you or are keen to meet new people while trying something outside of your comfort zone, social balance is just as important to your confidence levels as your health and image. The sense of achievement you earn from challenging yourself and accomplishing new goals can increase self-confidence and even boost leadership skills that you can apply to all aspects of your life.
