Hit the beach with confidence

Shape, May, 2007

Okay, so you've got some cellulite or are carrying a bit more weight around your middle than you'd like. But don't let that stop you from heading to the shore this summer. "Getting your attitude in shape is just as important as toning your muscles," says Ann Kearney-Cooke, Ph.D., author of Change Your Mind, Change Your Body. "You'll be hard-pressed to look your best if your self-confidence is lacking." To get your brain bikini-ready, try her tips:

1 TAKE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR A change of scenery--be it the park, a new hiking trail, or even your backyard--is an easy way to distract yourself from self-critical thoughts, says Kearney-Cooke.

2 ADJUST YOUR MIND-SET Instead of focusing on the negative, zero in on your positive body attributes (yes, you do have them). Then seek out clothes--including swimsuits--that flatter those areas.

3 STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS "So many women suffer from this bad habit," says Kearney-Cooke. "To overcome poor self-esteem, revel in the fact that you're uniquely beautiful." In other words, who cares if your friend can fit into a teeny-weeny bikini? You have sexy curves--be proud of them!