The image of that super sexy model on the cover everytime we read the latest issue of Cosmo magazine is enough to give us a complex. We girls can only sigh as we wonder why we can't ever look as perfect. In that skimpy bikini, she is a vision: All the perfect curves, not a shred of fat, and absolutely no traces of cellulite.

We mere mortals can take solace in the knowledge that the power of airbrushing can certainly do wonders to that picture. But this doesn't remove the harsh reality that our flabby arms look like chicken wings and our butts and thighs have the look of crumpled cottage cheese. Not only do those models on magazine covers (even if they're airbrushed) remind us of our lowly appearance, looking at our unsightly cellulite deposits is enough to drive us to depression.

Cellulite is nothing more than fat cells that have grown to such an extent that they have pushed through the connective tissues of the skin, thus giving it that infamous dimpled "cottage cheese" or "orange peel" look. Like any form of excess fat, this is caused by too many donuts, French fries, hotdogs, quarter pound burgers, soft drinks, sugary sweets, a highly-sedentary lifestyle, and stress. And because this seems to be the way of life these days, it is no wonder that more and more women are experiencing self-esteem issues due to cellulite.

While getting rid of any fat, cellulite included, can be a tough call (particularly if it has been lodged there for a long period of time), this does not mean it can't be removed. You don't have to go through extreme surgical procedures or purchase expensive creams to melt cellulite away. There is no magic pill for weight loss. If someone tells you otherwise, then be on guard.

There are practices, however, that any determined girl can do that have been proven to get rid of cellulite. Take note, however, that these do not promise overnight cures -- no such thing exists. These take hard work, focus and willpower. If you view these practices as a lifestyle rather than a one-shot deal, you'll not only get rid of cellulite, you'll put it away for life.

1. Mind what you eat and drink. Our cellulite problem most often starts here. Junk food, fast food, soda, alcohol, processed foods, too many fatty meats, too much sugar -- all of these contribute to the deposition of fat in our bodies. If you're serious about getting rid of cellulite, you've got to cut back on these things and ensure that fruits and vegetables are in abundance in your diet. Get hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.

2. Keep moving. No amount of dieting will ever get rid of cellulite if you don't exercise. Only by breaking a sweat can you make your muscles firm and toned, and consequently make the cellulite less visible. Ride a bike, stretch, do yoga, Pilates, swim, dance, play Frisbee, walk -- all of these activities will certainly go a long way towards getting rid of that fat.

3. Live healthy. Manage your stress. Meditate. Treat cigarettes and alcohol like the plague and excessive partying like a scourge. If you're serious about getting rid of cellulite, you're going to have to avoid these toxins that poison your body and contribute to the formation of cellulite.