In western culture idealized beauty for women tends to mean youthful looks, facial symmetry, femininity, glowing complexion, and a trim fit body. Women often go to great lengths to achieve their rendition of this ideal, and not necessarily by committing to good nutrition and exercise. Fad diets, surgery, injections, and eating disorders have become all too familiar as the path to achieving “beauty.”
People often see me because of their struggles with stress that can show itself as anxiety, depression, irritability, frustration, or guilt. Guilt is a big problem for so many of us juggling work, family, and self-care and these competing demands often feel daunting. It’s impossible to feel good about it all at once.
shutterstock
Forgiveness turns anger and hurt into healing and inner peace. Forgiveness helps one to overcome feelings of victimization, hurt, anxiety, and rage, along with personal and relational conflicts. It allow us to make the conscious decision to let go of a grudge so we can move forward in our lives.
At times it is easy to assume that you know what your partner of child is about to say, or even to complete their sentences. When you remain open to the possibilities, you may find yourself surprised by the outcome. People feel deeply cared for when they are heard. When listening—pay attention to the words, the body language, the tone of voice, the eye contact. Remember, “tone over content” matters most! That is how something is said matters more than what is said.
Cultivating positive attributes, experiences or memories leads to greater happiness and resilience as it fortifies us during times of adversity and emotional turmoil. Of all the attribute one can develop gratitude is the most strongly associated with mental health.
Savor your food. Experiment with becoming aware of each bite, involving all of your senses. Research shows that the first bite is most pleasurable-so pay particular attention to that bite. When you eat, do your best to just eat. Leave off electronics and develop the association of being calm and present when eating.
While in the throes of this glorious autumn weather we know that the holiday season is not too far ahead. Hopefully you are savoring these days—the brisk air and warmth … Read more
In today’s digital age, personal connection and relationships have arguably been sacrificed on the altar of technological efficiency. Our sensory world, and possibly even our neurological makeup, is being altered … Read more
This is part 2 of The Importance of Female Friendships in the Digital Age article, in which we talked about how vital friendships are in the digital age. Healthy friendships … Read more
Rachel, an administrative assistant with a vibrant personality never fails to light up a room and bring a sense of joy to her coworkers. That is, until January hits. Something … Read more
