You may reap with confidence, that is, until you take off your clothes. Suddenly insecurity seeps in. Now you’re agonizing over rough skin, that muffin-top and a little cellulite. What’s a man or woman to do? When being naked no longer feels fun, free and comfortable, it’s time to take a good long look in the mirror and rid yourself of your bad body image. Here’s how you can start feeling super sexy and confident with your naked body in just two weeks.
Cut out those gassy, belly-bloating foods
Nothing kills a mood faster than flatulence. Bloating, caused by gas and digestive issues, affect almost 30 percent of the population. If you’re in that percentile then maybe you need to seriously rethink what you’re eating before stripping down for that special someone. Foods like beans and lentils contain high amounts of protein, fiber and healthy carbs. Yet, because of their high fiber content, they can cause bloating in sensitive individuals, especially for those who aren’t used to eating a lot of fiber.
In fact, both lentils and beans also contain sugars that contribute to excessive gas production and bloating. Other belly-bloating and “fart-inducing” foods include carbonated drinks, wheat and broccoli. So, before the big reveal, you may want to cook your cruciferous vegetables to make them easier to digest. Or, indulge instead on alternative veggies like spinach, cucumbers, lettuce and sweet potatoes.
Polish your body
Yes, just like your vehicle, your body could probably use a little polishing. But we’re not talking the “wax on, wax off” variety. We’re talking about a natural scrub that will gently slough away those embarrassing rough patches on the knees, elbows and shins.
One of my favorite body scrubs is a recipe I make in my own kitchen. Just grab a 1/2 cup of white or brown sugar and mix with a 1/2 cup of coconut or olive oil. Gently rub the mixture onto the skin in circular motions when in the shower, then rinse off. Your skin will feel smoother and silky to the touch.
Men, it’s time to ‘manscape’
Looking good naked is not just reserved for females. Men also want to look good in all their glory. “Manscaping” is a guy’s version of getting neat and tidy. It will boost your confidence, leave a lasting, great impression, and… highlight your assets. Now, I’m not talking about waxing your entire body from head to toe, unless of course, you’re into that sort of thing. No, I’m talking about trimming a little off the top (or bottom) so to speak.
There’s no harm in keeping things neat and tidy in the nether regions. And just like the pubic area, you may want to trim your underarm hair as well. And for those sporting hairy shoulders and backs, you might want to consider removing that all together. Just saying.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
After sloughing, shaving and showering, it’s imperative to moisturize your body. Let’s face it: naked skin that’s soft and supple to the touch — san’s dry patches — is so much more appealing. Dermatologist Dr. Cynthia Bailey says apply moisturizer minutes after bathing or cleansing. During your shower or bath, your skin absorbs water that’s prone to evaporation. Therefore, “It’s essential to apply a thin layer of moisturizer or lotion to your skin within three minutes after toweling off to dry.” This way you’ll seal-in all the moisture your body craves. We recommend coconut oil, nature’s best moisturizer.
Slap on some cellulite cream
If you have cellulite, you’re not alone. According to ABC News, a study by Neutrogena, suggests that 70 percent of women have cellulite. In fact, more women have it than men. That’s because women have thinner skin, so it shows more clearly. Unfortunately, though, cellulite isn’t something that will go away overnight. And truthfully, it may never go away at all — even with the most expensive cellulite cream.
While there’s no medical proof that cellulite creams work, many swear that they help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Sometimes a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do. So, if slapping on a little cellulite cream helps boost your confidence when naked, then by all means, do it.
A little self-tan doesn’t hurt either
One of the easiest and best solutions for covering cellulite, stretch marks, scars and age spots is self-tanning sprays and creams. Using a waterproof spray tan, either over-the-counter or applied professionally at a salon, can even-out most discolorations and minimize imperfections.
However, forget tanning beds for tanning. As I’m sure you’re well aware, baking in the sun or on tanning beds can be dangerous for your health. Besides, since scars and stretch marks have no pigment, a real tan will only make them more noticeable when naked.
Stay hydrated
Water may just be one of the best things you can do to keep your skin and body looking young and plump. Staying hydrated promotes circulation, digestion and helps repair skin. The truth is, if you’re not staying sufficiently hydrated it doesn’t matter how many lotions and potions you’re using. If you’re continually overloading on moisturizer with little to no benefits, you’ll need to up your water intake. Remember, dehydration is not a good look on anyone naked. Also, consider giving coconut water a try.
Finally, love your body
Confidence is the best ego-booster you have. Look, most of us don’t have bodies that mimic Greek gods — that’s just not realistic. And, there’s only so much you can do to make yourself Photoshop ready for your big reveal. Sure, two weeks will improve a puffy, dry or hairy body, but truthfully, it likely won’t matter all that much. Once you’re standing naked in front of that special guy or gal, the last thing they’ll be doing is judging your cellulite or appendix scar. Rather, they’ll be so darn happy you chose to share your lovely body with them that they’ll be intoxicated with glee. So be confident, embrace your nakedness and love your body!
— Katherine Marko
