We all get them. You know, those days where you jump out of bed, ready to seize the day, and realize with dismay that you’re feeling pudgy and bloated from those loaded chili fries or from Aunt Flo paying a visit again. Whatever the reason, we know one thing for certain – we don’t like it. Not one bit. Your jeans feel snug, your belt has gone up a notch, and you convince yourself that none of your clothes are working with your body.
The mental game of “fat days” can play a tiring role on us women by making us feel self conscious of our bodies and drain our self-confidence – both of which are completely unacceptable! After all, regardless of a few pounds, we’re still fabulous and unique individuals and deserve more than to feel ashamed about our appearance. Here are a few easy ways to beat the bloat and take control of our so-called fat days!
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Let’s face the facts.
When it comes to fat days, we’re playing a mental chess game in our own heads, picking apart our bodies over differences that, I guarantee you, no one else can even notice. Think of it like this: when was the last time you looked at a friend, co-worker, sibling, or daughter and thought “wow, she’s looking three pounds heavier today, she must be really letting herself go”. My guess? Never. One of the biggest things you can do to help yourself overcome a fat day is to change your mentality and realize that the extra water weight you’re experiencing is by no means permanent and that it is due to the natural, day-to-day fluctuations that occur in your body.
In fact, “Weight fluctuations can result in a temporary weight increase of up to 5 pounds a day” according to Fitday.com and can depend on your salt intake, exercise routine, bowel movements, and countless other miniscule daily factors. By realizing that your body is just adjusting to its internal environment and that you did not, in fact, gain 5 pounds of fat overnight, you will be able to avoid the unduly applied self-hate and guilt that women often feel about the number on the scale.
After all, no number can judge how fantastic of a person you are!
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Dress for success.
While it may be tempting to break out your baggy pair of sweats or cover yourself up with a big sweatshirt, make an extra effort to wear that new dress or style yourself up with a statement necklace. This will boost your self-confidence and leave you feeling like your normal beautiful self!
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Drink water, and lots of it!
Salt is often the culprit behind fat days because it makes our body retain excess water and gives us the lower belly pudge that we dread. It may seem counterintuitive, but by drinking more water, you’ll help your body flush out the extra salt and get you feeling back to normal in regards to your appearance!
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Get moving!
Instead of sulking and hiding away at home for the day, go participate in your favorite sort of exercise. Whether it be a long walk, run, hiking, biking, exercising will release endorphins to boost your mood and remind you that your body is an amazing thing that allows you to partake in so many different activities. A few extra pounds of water weight are so insignificant in comparison to what our bodies let us do! Celebrate it!
Christine is a health and body image activist who is passionate about creating recipes that combine delicious and fresh ingredients with nutrition. Located on the coast of California, she enjoys spending time hiking, exploring new restaurants, and leading an active lifestyle. She is currently studying to become a physical therapist and runs her own growing food and fitness blog, Apple of My... Read More
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