The human mind is uniquely brilliant. Our remarkable cognitive capacity has allowed us to develop cures for deadly diseases like smallpox and tuberculosis, build skyscrapers and land on the moon. But we humans have a tendency to misuse this wondrous capability. We imagine horrible outcomes that are unlikely to play out. We lie in bed at night and fixate on our to-do list or the stupid comment we made or the email we forgot to send. We overthink, we ruminate, we obsess, we worry. In short, we create a whole bunch of unnecessary suffering. Getting in the habit of asking a simple question, “Is this useful?” can help curb these behaviors. Whether we’re worried about the wording of an email or over-thinking the consequences of … [Read more...] about Is This Useful?
Let Peace Bloom (Ending the Toxic Practice of Judgment)
In my previous post, I offered up a simple tool to disrupt your inner bully. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend you do. It’s the easiest way I’ve found to diminish self-shaming. Unwinding years (and often decades) of bullying yourself may seem hard, but not changing a behavior that affects you in negative ways is hard too. Making a deliberate choice to end the war with my body was one of the best gifts I ever gave to myself. When you judge yourself or someone else, you’re not helping yourself or them in any beneficial way. I grew up in a household where we spent a lot of time picking other people apart. The tradition continues to this day… He walked around with his shirt off. I shouldn’t have to look at that!Did … [Read more...] about Let Peace Bloom (Ending the Toxic Practice of Judgment)
Disrupt Your Inner Critic
No one likes a bully. Nevertheless, almost every woman has one thing in common. They are a bully to themselves. Most of us aren’t even aware of our behavior. The cruel thoughts just stream through our minds... You’re disgusting.No one would ever find your body attractive.You’d look better wearing a garbage bag.Don’t even think about trying those on. I recently stumbled upon this video. Two best friends wrote down the things they dislike about their own bodies – then proceeded to say these comments out loud, directed at one another. Why do we say things to ourselves that we wouldn't ever say to (or think about) our best friends or children or sisters? When I work with my clients, we focus on one habit for two weeks. I … [Read more...] about Disrupt Your Inner Critic
Three Strategies for Healthy Dining Out
You don’t have to completely avoid restaurants when you’re trying to improve (+ maintain) your health. A few simple techniques can keep you on track + making good food decisions – even when eating away from home. Tip #1: Plan Plan Plan! Most restaurants now have websites where you can view menus online. If possible, do your homework before you go. Look through the menu and decide on your choices beforehand, so you don’t fall prey to temptation or succumb to peer pressure from well-meaning friends (Oh, just order the Fettuccini Alfredo, live a little!). If you live in the US, check out HealthyDiningFinder.com. It'll suggest "best case scenario" options to you even at less-healthy restaurants (fast-food, chains, etc.) If … [Read more...] about Three Strategies for Healthy Dining Out