Be a Booby
© Tina Anderson, http://flirtingwithfitness.com
All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
For our youngsters, Halloween is probably one of the most looked-to and anticipated
days on the calendar. And, for many adults, it’s an opportunity (as Madonna puts it) to express yourselves.
Since I’m allowed to openly share my 50 years of age-related wisdom, I have to talk about costume parties. Even with the 30 to 50-something’s, you’re going to see a lot of women in provocative costumes along with the typical goddess, princess and the likes. Nothing wrong with that. We had a white trash party several years ago and many of our friends told us it was the most fun along with our disco/70’s bash. The husbands and boyfriends even more so for obvious reasons.
In general, don’t we live somewhat constricted? We say no to ourselves a lot when we should say yes or let’s give it a try, and vice versa. I think we, especially women, operate and function inhibited much of the time, diminishing our natural sensuality or not taking the time to pamper ourselves, such as a goddess or princess easily would. Dressing up like a French Maid when we’re at a party (where it’s okay and acceptable) tells me that we want to feel and look sexy but we’re afraid of what others would think or that our bodies are not worthy. And, guys, too. I’m not advocating g-strings and Chippendale look-a-likes but I’ve seen some “statement-like” get-up’s that tell me there is a side of you that is also being repressed. Greek Gods, pro athletes, rock stars…might translate to starting a new workout, taking music lessons, playing in an adult sports league or starting a band; taking charge more at work; etc. Honestly, no wonder Halloween parties are so popular. We let loose and suspend reality for a while. Think about the possibility that you are self-repressed or often holding back a part of you that deserves acknowledgement and needs to be expressed. Think about why you were drawn to a costume. If it’s because you’re allowed to be creative and bring on the laughs, find a way to do it more often. (We need more levity, joy and laughter in our lives!) Conversely, if you’re hiding behind a costume, why? Stop doing that! Realize that you have unique special qualities that are attractive if you accept them. For Pete’s Sake, if you’re near my age, what the heck? We have more self-awareness and acceptance. Open that gift immediately. We’ve certainly earned it.
So, in recognition of Halloween, I propose living more like one of my favorite creatures, the Blue-Footed Booby. They have big, bright blue feet (the brighter the better) and they proudly show them off, prancing and strutting about. Of course, it’s the boy boobs that are comfortable doing this, but you gals understand the significance.
My ideal costumes, you might wonder…Dallas Cowboy football uniform, Shakira or J-Lo in a shizzle-dizzle, curvy outfit; a Gypsy, an Inca Warrior or SuperWoman or some incredibly creative, engineer derived concept like an apple tree, a utensil or something of that nature. There. Not shy about. And, my friends and family would not be surprised or shocked either. What about you?
Dress up. Dance. Be Sexy. Be a Booby.
Certified through ACE and AFAA and possessing a number of specialty fitness certifications, Tina Anderson started teaching group fitness in 1985 and has coordinated or consulted for over 15 group fitness programs, served as a master trainer and coordinator for Star Trac Fitness and their Precision Cycling Program, completed project work with major corporations and on international projects, presented as a guest speaker and maintained her personal training business throughout. As a fitness author, Tina's articles often appear in national and international fitness publications. 
