“Beach Ready” by June: My Body, My Rules

Why I Swapped Extreme Workouts and Quick Fixes for Sustainable Habits that Actually Stick

Text and Photos courtesy of Reslie Mundwiler

Every summer, there’s this unspoken pressure to slim down, tone up, and somehow be “beach ready” by June. For years, I fell into that mindset. As a makeup and hairstylist, I’ve always helped others look their best for events, shoots, and celebrations. But behind the scenes, I was often running on coffee, skipping meals, and squeezing in rushed workouts that left me exhausted, not energized.

Years ago, I wanted things to be different not just for the season, but for me. I said to myself I didn’t need another diet. I needed a reset rooted in sustainable habits something I could carry with me beyond the warm weather and into real life.

Balanced Nutrition: Nourishing, Not Restricting

I stopped chasing perfection on my plate. Instead, I focused on hydration—starting each day with water, often with lemon or cucumber, to gently wake up my system. I committed to fueling my body with whole foods: grilled vegetables, lean proteins, good carbs like brown rice or oats, and healthy fats like nuts and olive oil.

More importantly, I practiced mindful eating. I sat down for meals without screens, paid attention to hunger and fullness, and let go of guilt. I still enjoy treats—just with presence, not pressure.

Movement That Works for My Life

I used to think workouts had to be intense to count. Now, I embrace movement that fits into my rhythm. Some days, it’s a long walk through town or a hike in the hills with friends. Other times, I do strength training right at home—squats, push-ups, resistance band work.

On days when my body feels tight or tired, I do gentle stretching or a short yoga flow. Flexibility and mobility are just as important as cardio and strength. What matters most is consistency—not how long or hard, but showing up for myself regularly.

Mental Wellness: The Real Game-Changer

What’s surprised me most is how much mental wellness has impacted my energy and focus. I started blocking off quiet time each day—sometimes just 10 minutes to journal, breathe deeply, or sit in silence. I protect my sleep like it’s sacred now. I go to bed earlier, create a calming wind-down routine, and wake up feeling clearer.

And I’ve been working on body positivity, too. No more criticizing myself in the mirror. I celebrate how strong I feel, how much better I sleep, how balanced my energy is. I remind myself that wellness isn’t about looking a certain way—it’s about feeling good in my skin.

Redefining the Summer Body

It isn’t about extremes. It’s about balance, sustainability, and self-respect. I’ve stopped chasing quick fixes, and instead, I’m building habits that feel natural, nourishing, and joyful.

From the food I eat to how I move and how I rest, I’m more in tune with my body than ever. And that’s something I’ll carry with me—not just through summer, but all year long.

This isn’t a summer body. It’s my body, thriving season after season.