There was a summer when I remember pulling out a sundress I used to love — soft cotton, flowy, flattering — and instead of feeling confident and light…

…I felt uncomfortable, bloated, and like I wanted to crawl out of my skin.

I kept tugging at the fabric all day.
Crossing my arms.
Not wanting to take photos.
Saying no to dessert because I already felt “puffy.”
Avoiding hugs because my stomach felt too sensitive to touch.

All the things I used to look forward to about summer — outdoor parties, date nights, laughing with girlfriends on patios — just made me more aware of how bad I felt in my body.

☀️ The Emotional Toll of Summer Discomfort

Bloating and gut issues don’t just show up in your digestion.
They mess with your mind, your confidence, your joy.

They make you second-guess your outfit, your appetite, your plans, and sometimes even your worth.

I know that sounds heavy. But it’s the truth I wish more people talked about.

Because if you're someone who…

• Feels anxious about ...