Start from the root of it all, and blossom into something new.

Let's discuss the connections in our lives. We can all probably think of many positive people who encourage us and ignite the fire within us to be a better person--a person capable and motivated to live life fully and passionately. Unfortunately, we can also most likely think of people who have hurt us very deeply. People who bring out the worst in us, bring out the insecurities in us, and make us feel like we are not in control. 

This is what I have learned: there will forever be those negative people in our lives. In fact, they are around us every day. They may be the person you never met who takes a condescending jab at you while you're in line at the grocery store or trying on clothes at your favorite shop. They may even be the friend that you have known for a long time who is unhappy in their own life, so they feel the need to bring you down. This is the secret: we can't change everyone. We can't help everyone. However, we are in control of our lives and our own thoughts and actions. We have the power within us to stop the negative cycle internally and shine with a positive spirit. There will be those who embrace the positive energy, and those that shun it. Yet, by choosing peace for OURSELVES, we can avoid being negatively affected by those that previously had the ability to effect us. 

Those who know me can tell you that I love yoga. It helps to keep me calm, balanced, focused, and accepting of myself and others. Today, my wonderful yoga instructor and I were discussing how many prestigious universities have done studies on the benefits of yoga. In fact, here is a helpful link regarding the benefits of yoga in many ways: 

http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Mental_Health_Letter/2009/April/Yoga-for-anxiety-and-depression

So, my point is this: we have the power to change. We have the power to overcome negativity. My activity of choice in combatting negativity, poor body image, and stress is yoga. I also journal, spend time with loved ones, bake, and have my alone reflection time when needed. Your activities may be much different. The important thing is choosing something that centers and calms you--allowing you to be a better person to yourself and those around you. 

It was very important for me to understand how to control my negative thoughts and my eating disorder before I had children because I never wanted to pass on a negative body image to my future children. I want them (whenever I may be blessed to have them!) to be strong, healthy, confident, and be able to channel their inner peace as necessary. I would not be able to teach them how to do this if I was not at peace. So it took me a long time, but I have changed. For myself and for those in my future. 

Along with the change, I am aware of how the things we say and the way we act can strongly affect children. We must be a beacon of hope and strength and light and love, and we do so by choosing our actions and words carefully. 

Here is a lovely article from The National Eating Disorders Association with tips for mothers, fathers, and anyone who works with younger individuals) on how to approach positive thinking in this area: 

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/50-ways-lose-3ds

It is actually helpful to read to help us NOW, as well. These tips are a good guideline to give ourselves positive energy and to give it to the younger people in our lives. After all, in order to love someone else we have to start by loving ourselves fully and completely. Then, that love will radiate from within us. 

We have the power to change ourselves and encourage positive change in the world through the younger generation. 

Love yourself today and pass that love on so we can see the droplets of change enter into the vast ocean of life.