So it's my niece's birthday party tomorrow, and apparently it's being held at a local swimming pool.

As some know already I had my first bout of real dysphoria the other day... Tomorrow is making me feel even worse.

We're going to be at a swimming pool, and I love swimming, but I never did fully like how I looked in a swimsuit. I think in part because I am a bit self conscious about being over weight, but I always wore gym shorts and a large (really large) t-shirt while swimming. After learning more about myself in the past month or so, combined with the dysphoria swimming tomorrow is going to suck. I want to swim and have fun with my niece, I always enjoy playing with her, but now I just don't know if my heart is in it or not.

I guess I feel at a loss. I don't want to seem like I'm being rude by just sitting in a corner not participating with my sister, mother, niece, and whoever else will be there... But I don't necessarily feel comfortable about swimming right now either. It seriously sucks, because like I said, I love to go swimming. Water has always had this odd calming effect on me, sometimes I take an extra shower during a day where I just need to reflect on things and soaking in the water always feels relaxing and I can just think so much clearer like that. Swimming has always been a favorite activity of mine, ever since I was a little kid too. It's like feeling free to some extent. But now I just don't know what to do...

Anyone out there had a similar issue? If so... how did you go through with it, cause I could really use some advice.

Jerred

I am no expert, and I don't know if you have told anybody yet or not nor do I know your story. I watch kids on a regular basis. I have found that many of them really don't care how you look as long as you care. I have never really tried to look like somebody who should be around kids, but I am great with them regardless. I love black and I have been told I have a face that looks like I am always in a bad mood. Really I am just tired because I am busy. Sorry rambling again. Anyways look kids don't care for the most part. Show you love her and spend time with her. If she is accepting then all the better. Do you have any trunks? I know a lot of girls who where them because they feel less exposed maybe you could get some and say that is your reason(don't know if you are out). In the end it is all about how comfortable you are. I do wish you luck

Go over to a toystore and buy yourself a toy water cannon.  You can enjoy the pool, and your niece, without actually actually having to swim.



Even some inexpensive squirt-guns will make you the hit of the party (with the kids) 

How could I have forgotten the water guns? *face palm* Kids love those

I know exactly how you feel.

The last time I went swimming was 1993, in the ocean. My trunks just left me feeling dirty and exposed.

I got over it then by concentrating on those I was with and how disappointed they might be if I didn't go in. The kids in particular.

Quote from: Jamie D on May 05, 2013, 12:38:38 AM
Go over to a toystore and buy yourself a toy water cannon.  You can enjoy the pool, and your niece, without actually actually having to swim.

Lol I like this idea.

If you do wear a t-shirt and long trunks, nothing would be too noticeable.  Personally, I hate going into pools because of this issues (just the reverse).  I would always wear a t-shirt and make sure all my body hair was shaved to a t. Usually people don't say anything. So, I don't think anyone would really care if you wore a t-shirt or covered yourself up.  Just try to not to focus on it and have fun.  I know that is easier said than done.

So the birthday party is done and over, and I came to discover I didn't need to worry too much. I was a little self conscious at first but my niece kept me fairly busy swimming around with her, so I had fun in the end.

Quote from: Jerred1985 on May 05, 2013, 05:23:31 PM
So the birthday party is done and over, and I came to discover I didn't need to worry too much. I was a little self conscious at first but my niece kept me fairly busy swimming around with her, so I had fun in the end.

That sounds like a great party.

Kids are the best. 

That's great!.  I am glad everything went well and it sounds like your niece had fun.

It is good to hear that all went well