How To Handle The Stress of "Feeling Fat" This Summer

feeling fat. illustrated woman with orange flowers wrapping around her and cherries hanging from her ears.

Do you ever have those times where you’re just “feeling fat?” Well, you’re not alone. A lot of people do. Especially when the summer heat comes and we start wearing less and less clothing.

I know for me, personally, I feel very bloated and disgusting on hot, humid days. Most people seem to be able to just shake it off. But for those of us struggling with eating disorders, that is easier said than done.

Moments of feeling fat

For years, when I had these moments of “feeling fat,” I would turn to the scale and study my reflection in the mirror. This only did more harm than good. Already being in a vulnerable state, I would let the numbers on the scale get to my head and find new imperfections in my body that needed to be fixed. Perhaps this is the reason that summers have always been the hardest for me – that and “bathing suit season.”

After three summers of relapsing, I decided that it was time to change something. So, the first thing that went was the scale – Best. Decision. Ever.

And do you know what I gave up next? Degrading myself. Now, every time I look in the mirror, I remind myself that I am strong, beautiful, and important – not “fat, ugly, and disgusting.” And every time I am tempted to step on a scale, just to “check where I’m at,” I remind myself that a number does not define me.

Take my advice about feeling fat

Whenever you have times in which you’re “feeling fat,” please take my advice: DO NOT use the scale to “check-in” and make sure you’re “okay”. Numbers only mess with our heads.

It’s dangerous to have that magic weight in your mind. Weight fluctuates. And it can be mentally difficult to accept.

So please, DO NOT use a magic weight to define you. Leave the numbers to the doctors. Don’t even look at the number on the scale when you get weighed at your yearly physical. It’s not worth the stress.

Do this instead

Instead of turning to the scale or mirror when you’re “feeling fat,” do something that draws attention to one of your talents or brings to light how blessed we are to live on this Earth. Paint a picture. Write a poem. Go for a walk. Photograph nature.

Life is about so much more than appearance!

Next time you’re “feeling fat,” try this. And remember it will pass. Take a deep breath and remind yourself how valuable you are. Thank God for all the blessings you have in your life. Think about all the things you can do!

You are more than a number. You are YOU. No one else can be you and you can’t be anyone else.