Help me to enjoy my holiday (self image related)

[Washingscreenofdoom]

I’m 5ft and a size 16-18. Huge belly, neck and face but skinny arms and legs.
I can’t work magic in the 2 weeks between now and my beach holiday but I’m honestly feeling ill about how much I hate myself. I’ve bought tasteful swimwear and clothes but I just feel that I look horrendous in them all.
I don’t judge others and would never look at someone by the pool and be horrified by their looks but I think people will to me.
Has anyone any kind advice to help me reframe this or at least try to relax?
I know the world has far bigger problems but I’m really down about what should be an amazing holiday because I can’t get over this.

The most flattering thing you can wear is confidence. Have a fabulous time!

All I can tell you is that once you are on holiday you will find you will relax and stop worrying. Honestly, Continental women don’t care at all. No one will be looking at you. Just relax and enjoy yourself.

Thank you both. I know the crux of it is that it’s me who needs to not care. I just seem to be completely unable to do that! Hopefully once there it’ll be a bit easier.

Stay busy! I'm certainly not trying to tell you that it's silly to worry. Many of us do. But if your brain is full of interesting things about the local history, food, culture, whatever, you'll focus less on your body and you'll feel more engaged and joyful.

Make sure to stay out of the sun by covering your skin in fabric, not just sunscreen. You can have great skin throughout your life even if there are other things you don't like about your body.

And when you get home, start an exercise programme and a diet if you want that. If you can fit in regular exercise (meaning cardio, yoga, strength training or whichever of those you have time for; see YouTube for free classes), you will feel healthier after a few months and that will make you feel better about yourself.

For now, remember that everyone else will be focusing on their own issues and figure out how to keep yourself engaged while you're there. Look up local activities and find interesting books to take!

I don't know if this will help but having survived cancer and other serious health issues I now don't care what my body looks like. I'm just glad to be alive. Can you somehow get into this mindset? You're alive. You're healthy. You're going to have an amazing holiday. Enjoy it.

You've alluded to it yourself- you wouldn't clock someone by the pool and immediately think 'huge belly, neck and face but skinny arms and legs'. I bet your mind would jump to the bits you like- 'nice hair, skin, lovely tan' etc

I honestly think that the majority of us 'see' the bits we admire (envy!) in others firstly, and save the negative harsh critique for our own bodies.

Relax, give yourself a break, and enjoy your holiday!

Thank you. You are all truly lovely people. I am going to keep looking over your replies every time I need a kick up the bum. @Antst you are right and I definitely do need to! @Luno I’m so glad that you’re here to tell me that and that you kicked cancers butt!