Swimsuit season.
Those two little words can strike terror into the heart of the bravest, most competent American woman.
However, if approached correctly swimsuit season can be significantly less traumatic this year.
Never, under any circumstances, try on swimsuits at the store.
Store mirrors and lighting can be far too unflattering for your delicate psyche.
Pick out a couple of suits, at least one in a size larger than you think you wear, buy them and take them home to try on.
Yes, this will involve returning at least one of them, but you will feel so much better about yourself.
If you've ever had the experience of trying on several suits, all of which "made you look fat" and leaving the store in tears, you'll appreciate the comfort of your home even more.
On your way home, stop by a Target, K-Mart or Wal-Mart.
You are about to make the best purchase of your life! For around $20 you can buy a mirror that measures about 12 inches wide by abut 48 inches tall.
It is meant to be adhered to a wall or door.
Do not adhere it.
Lean it against a wall of the room in which you will be trying on your swimsuits.
Make sure that the bottom of the mirror is at least 12 inches away from the wall; it's tilting backwards.
A mirror tipped in that fashion will make you look long and slim.
Then, and only then, are you ready to try on your suits.
It is said that "your perception determines your reality.
" What the mirror does is help you shift your perception/reality.
Research has shown that most women "see" themselves as heavier than they really are.
All we're doing now is readjusting your "sight" to one that may be more reality based.