We get to this point in the winter and we know there’s a long time to go before summer – especially with the freak weather this year. If you can’t wait, the only way to improve the situation is to get away now to a sunnier clime with a great beach!

But covered as they are at the moment in thick layers and winter coats, our bodies just might not be ready to reveal themselves in a bikini, no matter how warm the sunshine. So, with a warm-weather break (hopefully) just around the corner, how can you get bikini-ready in time?

Always Be Eating Well 

And “well” is different from “a lot!” Nutrition is forever, not just for summer. Seriously, what someone puts into their body dictates what they get out of it. A healthy diet reflects the amount of exercise an individual takes and nutritional balance is all-important; a moderate path is best as far as rich and fatty foods are concerned.

If an individual exercises regularly, his or her diet should be based around starchy, wholegrain carbs, with plenty of protein for muscle tone. Wholegrain will help to release energy slowly, throughout the day; proteins and fats make you feel fuller for longer. Fresh veggies and fruits keep the skin and eyes clear, as well as delivering precious vitamins. Junk food should be eaten once in a blue moon; if you keep your balance right, it doesn’t matter about the odd misdemeanor.

Exercise is Good for Everything, Especially for Feeling Good!

However it’s done, exercise is an amazing thing. It stimulates serotonin production – the feel-good hormone. Everyone should go for a run, take a swim, or take up yoga! [Editor’s note: Heck yes everyone should take up yoga!] Not only does it make weight loss easier and shapes up the body, the inner freshness splurges out all over the place. No one likes running in the bad weather – plus sometimes that’s not even the safest thing to do – but there are always fun fitness classes at the gym, all year round.

Get Pampered (a.k.a. Treat Yo’ Self) 

Even sticking to both of the above, the human psyche is a tough nut to crack, and the winter months are hard. Despite all the good things being done, some people still might not feel “bikini-ready.”

Getting a few sessions in at a beauty salon could be worth every cent in terms of building confidence to summer levels prior to a holiday away. It isn’t just about facials and pedicures, where you can hardly see any changes. A big change that is easy to achieve is the removal of excessive hair that has appeared in unmentionable places. Someone who takes a photo of laser hair removal before and after for comparison will really experience the feel-good factor. Seeing the difference right there following laser treatment or the amazing Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) hair removal is the perfect way to boost self-confidence and get on with looking forward to some sun while wearing your favorite bikini. 

Guest post by Aimee Claire, a freelance writer based in the U.K. Thanks for contributing to Of Revolt, Aimee! // Photography Credits: One and Two.

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There’s nothing more exciting than a well-deserved vacation to look forward to – even booking it is enough to bring a huge smile to our faces, let alone the packing and the holiday itself! While Christmas is just around the corner, there’s no reason why we can’t also fantasize about organizing an awesome beach break and the much needed sunshine that comes with it.

With plenty of beach holidays available, whether you plan to book in advance or you’re flexible enough to wait for a last minute deal, you’ll be spoiled for choice. One thing’s for sure though – if you want a beach break to remember, you’re definitely going to need to plan what to pack. With holidays in the UK, you never really know what the weather is going to be like, but by heading to hotter climes, you can almost guarantee unfaltering sunshine and lovely warm temperatures for the duration of your stay. So, what should you pack for your beach break?

Swimwear
No beach holiday would be complete without a cozzie [Editor’s note: I interrupt this message to report that “cozzie” is British and Australian slang for “swimming costume.” Carry on.] and some Speedos! Give some thought to what sort of swimwear you would feel comfortable wandering the beach in – perhaps a bikini, a one-piece or a tankini would suit? Pick up a wraparound, such as a sarong, or a nice loose-fitting maxi dress to cover up when you’re not spread out on your sun lounger catching the rays.

Casual Clothes
Mix and match your casual wear wherever you can so that you don’t end up packing more than you need. Tank tops and t-shirts in various colours will complement shorts and skirts perfectly. Choose cotton pieces so that you stay nice and cool in the midday sun.

Eveningwear
Unless you plan to book a super swanky and exclusive holiday, you won’t need to overdress for the evenings. Something smart, yet simple, would work wonders. Maxi dresses for ladies and chinos for men are popular choices. You can accessorize with jewelry and a pashmina, too.

Toiletries
Remember that, within most resorts, there will be supermarkets and shops on hand for any toiletries you might forget. However, in most cases, it’s cheaper to buy them back home and take these with you. Take travel size bottles to avoid packing big, heavy items and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Don’t forget a holiday read or some music to keep you occupied when your other half is wading in the sea or the kids are digging for treasure. Most of all, enjoy your holiday shopping trips and look forward to the break! 

Photography Credits: One and Two, both via CubaGallery. // Guest post by Catherine Lavinia in coordination with Neilson Activity Holidays. Thanks so much for contributing to Of Revolt, Catherine!

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