Old age wisdom that has lasted centuries!

by Tammy Kroll

We ‘ve all heard “You are what you eat” and I can’t stress enough how important that is.  But have you also heard, “As a man thinketh, so is he”.  So, how does that relate to beauty?  Take stress, for example.  When we experience it, a chemical process happens within us, producing cortisol and wreaking havoc with our health, showing up on our faces with breakouts, dry flakiness, sallow complexion, worry lines, etc.  We cannot avoid stress but we can train our thoughts to counter-balance this sneaky skin zapper with happy chemicals like serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins to soothe our souls and smooth our skin.  As you would with your face, start the process of cleansing, toning and nourishing your mind.

Cleanse – To rid of impurites.

Take Inventory.  Rid your mind of any impurities that are clouding your thoughts.  Anger and bitterness towards others are as destructive to your mind as toxins and dirt are to your body.  Consider the media you choose. Negativity from certain TV shows, news and internet all can have adverse cumulative effects on the brain.  Are there people in your life, work situations, relationships that are constantly bringing you down?

De-clutter and sort.  Box up clothing you don’t wear and other items just taking up space.  Grab a huge garbage bag and start filling it with all the accumulated paper around your desk. Don’t put it off.  Start journaling.  Just the simple act of writing down your angry feelings, fears and hurts, can free up your brain.  Cut back on TV time or even cut it out altogether.  See how you feel – even after a short time.  Allow for creativity to fill the gap.

Let Go.  Forgive those who have hurt you.  It doesn’t mean you open yourself up to further wounding – set boundaries if you must.  The act of forgiveness is enough.  Right the wrongs that have been weighing on you – perhaps calling on or sending a note of apology if necessary.  And forgive yourself. Give yourself the gift of a fresh clean start.

Tone – Give greater strength or firmness to.

Set New Patterns.   Learn to interrupt old negative thought habits.  Have tools such as crossword puzzles, Sudoku or other games at the ready when those bad patterns creep back. Pick up an uplifting novel and spend time getting swept up in a beautiful setting and story.  Keep in mind it takes about 30 to 45 days to set new habits so give it time. It will be worth it in the end.

Be Productive. Start planning a garden or decorate a room in your house.  If you are on the creative side, paint a picture, knit a scarf, dust off that old guitar and crack open your Beatles anthology.  Creating and being productive is a great way to counter negativity and exercise your brain.

Learn Something New. Whether it’s taking a college course at a local campus or looking up something you’ve always wondered about online.  Learning, as well as creativity releases positive chemicals in the brain so go ahead and learn to paint! Challenge yourself and learn to fly!

Nourish – To supply with what is necessary for life, health, and growth.

Be One With Nature.  Break from the angular world of desks and office cubicles and step out into the fresh air and onto the soft flowing curved paths of the reservoir or park.  Just a 30 minute stroll can change your mood for the better. Experience the Arts…stroll through a local Art museum or attend a poetry slam. Expand your perspective. And finally,  Love Somebody…beginning with yourself! Be grateful and compassionate. Give to charity. Hug someone…and give yourself a pat on the back!

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