Mantras

Man·tra (noun): originally in Hinduism and Buddhism, a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation

I do not quite remember when I started welcoming mantras into my daily routine, but it is astonishing how such simple messages can carry such meaning and strength. Not only do mantras clear the mind of unhelpful thoughts or clutter accumulated from living in a tumultuous world, but positive incantations give us permission to set healthy boundaries and remind us of our potential & power. Just because it might seem like the "right" thing to constantly work harder, be friends with everyone, or look a certain way does not mean those things are aligned with your highest self. Protect your energy. Invest it in yourself, trusted loved ones, and causes you feel passionate about.

While I by no means have it all figured out, I have found that there are some phrases I have leaned in to when my body, mind, and surroundings are telling me to do different things. By thinking them and actively saying them out loud, you have the power to realign these three elements rather than staying stuck in your own mind where the line between "should" and "want" can get blurry.

With that said, here is my list of empowering mantras:

Life expands in congruence with courage.

Do not strive for perfection. Rather, be informed and empowered in your decision making.

The body hears everything the mind says.

We are meant to change. Our bodies and minds are meant to change with each season of life. Who wants to be stagnant?

Making empowered decisions that allow you to thrive and feel your best is not restriction. It’s the highest form of self respect.

Food is the greatest from of medicine and the most common source of shame. You cannot use food to heal if you view it as a threat.

Decisions made out of fear will never allow you to flourish.

Empowered decisions are born out of self respect.

Knowledge is your greatest weapon again the “noise” - anything that pulls you away from listening to yourself.

Some may resonate, some may not. While you may formulate an entirely different list, I have picked up these lessons and words of connectivity each time a hardship has knocked me down. Reminders that each time a muscle tears, it grows back stronger with proper recovery and care.