It’s safe to say 2023 has been the year “hot girl summer” went out and “soft girl summer” swooped in. Honestly, though — we’re not mad. 

For many women, summer held the enormous pressure of partying until dawn, being “bikini” ready and speeding toward the most Instagrammable moments possible. But this year brought us an opportunity to reflect, reconnect with ourselves, nature, the people around us, and recharge. 

It also helped us reshape our thinking around our bodies. For example, why are we hiding our curves and thinking only ONE type of body is deemed acceptable or fitting. After all, embracing our curves, our imperfections and the “softer” sides of ourselves is the key to creating a more authentic life. 

Here’s how we’re embracing our curves all year long. 

Changing our mindset is the first step to embracing how we look

With social media consistently bombarding us with filters, fit bodies and advertisements on miracle creams to “fix” our defects, it’s no wonder many women feel insecure about their figure. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, much of this information could be affecting our mental health and could lead to eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, depression and anxiety. 

However, you can start by shifting your mindset. A good exercise is to create a list of beliefs about your body that are originally yours and others that come from outside sources. This will help you realize that much of what you believe about yourself comes from outside sources — and that’s no way to live, musa.  

Realizing our weight fluctuates— and that’s okay

There are many reasons our weight fluctuates. Periods, pregnancy, hormonal changes and more can contribute to weight gain and loss.

Research published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders suggests that our body image is affected by hormones such as progesterone and estrogen during our menstrual cycles. The study shows that during the luteal phase (pre-menstrual), women tend to eat more and experience bloating due to a spike in progesterone. Meanwhile, during the follicular phase before ovulation, most women tend to eat less.

Establish a practice of appreciation for your body, try these three affirmations

Oftentimes, we focus so much on the parts of our bodies that we don’t like that we forget about all the incredible things it does for us. Establishing a practice of appreciation and gratitude can also help you cultivate a healthy relationship with your body.

Journaling, opting for fresh fruits and vegetables, enjoying foods without feeling guilty and exercising are options worth considering. Additionally, we have three affirmations you can repeat to yourself any time you feel like you need a boost in confidence and amor for your body:

• “I am grateful for my body and all it does for me”
• “I love, honor, and accept myself just as I am”
• “My body is bold and beautiful.”