Wake Up Call

A recent survey showed that on average, women have 13 negative body image thoughts every day. Wake up call: This is about one self-abusive thought per waking hour.

When we have these thoughts, we're training our brains to focus on negativity. And the more brutal thoughts we have about ourselves, the easier it is for our brain to go there. The good news is, these brain injuries can be healed with a little time, self-appreciation, and practice.

It's time to reboot, recharge, and rewire our minds.

1. Reboot: As soon as your open your eyes in the morning, let the very first thought you have be a positive one. For example, "I know how to appreciate joy, so today will be a good day."

2. Recharge: Give yourself a little extra love. Maybe that means you take a break in the middle of your work day to go for a walk, or perhaps you treat yourself to your favorite yoga class. Whatever it is that you know will give you that extra energy and enjoyment, simply go for it.

3. Rewire: If you feel those abusive thoughts creeping in, STOP THEM. They do not own you, and you will not fail at anything if you let them go. Instead of completely insulting yourself with a thought like, "You'll just never be good enough" (would you say this to your friend?), point out all the things you do great and give yourself the credit you deserve.

"You are very powerful, provided you know how powerful you are."
~Yogi Bhajan