One million other things to do this summer besides worry about your weight

For some people, summer means endless days of sleeping in, binging on Netflix, working on your tan, scoping out hot lifeguards, and making memories.

However, if you’re like me and you have struggled with body image issues, summer can be a difficult time. Not only will your body be on display a whole lot more, but you also have more time to concentrate on “healthy” eating and exercise. But how do you know when you have gone too far?

I know when I am going too far when my thoughts about food and exercise become obsessive. For the first time in my life, I started working a 40 hour work week this summer. While I am thrilled to have this opportunity, the level of anxiety about having to sit at a desk for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week is unnerving.

I am learning to cope though. Sitting for 8 hours a day actually isn’t healthy (check out this article) and I use exercise to motivate myself through the day (an hour max). I also walk around the office when I can and during lunch, if the weather is nice, I take a brisk walk downtown.

Summer is a fun time and there are a million other things to do besides worry about your weight. So screw the idea of obtaining that “perfect” bikini body and try some things on my list of things to “The Top Five Things I Plan to Do this Summer” or create your own. Have fun!

The Top Five Things I Plan to Do this Summer

1. Road trip! (Have you seen The Fault in Our Stars? Check out this awesome trip that takes you to sights seen in the movie.)
2. Zumba in the park
3. Eat ice cream whenever possible
4. Go on the Cycle Tavern (it’s the best of both worlds!)
5. Go home (home sweet home is a good place to recuperate from a 40 hour work week)