With all these ideas of how to manage self-consciousness under your belt (or should we say bikini) let's think about the practical side of getting into your bathing suit.

When shopping for a bathing suit, choose a comfortable and flattering bathing suit in the right size that doesn't accentuate those areas that are most worrisome for you. And when you're trying on different suits, make a conscious effort to focus on what you like about your body instead of focusing on what you dislike.

Finally, remember that - after a comfortable bathing suit - the most important thing to wear to the beach is a good attitude. Don't dwell on the fact that the itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny, yellow polka-dot bikini is not for you. You look better in what you've chosen - enjoy it!