“Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.“ – Sigmund Freud

Wanna get into great shape WITHOUT all the stress? Try to get into great MENTAL SHAPE and I promise you your body will thank you for it!

The magazines and the celebrities have set the tone for what is considered physically healthy. But, have you really taken the time to look in the mirror beyond the belly fat you may not want or the extra chin that seems to stand out and see the person behind the mask?

What you normally see in the mirror is not REALLY who you are. It is merely a shell or outer presentation of who you think you are. But when you look in your eyes and I mean get really close to the mirror and look into your eyes, you will see your soul staring back at you. It will either be asking you a question or confirming an emotion.

If it asks you a question, it may be something like…”Why am I not enough for you? Do you love me or those people that tell you to ignore me? Are you upset with me? Will you please take better care of me?”

If it confirms an emotion, it may be something like…”You’re beautiful. I’m so glad you know this. Even when your physical mind is unsure, never fear because I will always be with you.”

Your soul never lies, but it needs to be nurtured more than any other part of your body. Without a mental connection to your desire to be healthier, your body will not change. Diets and quick-fixes will only postpone and temporarily bandage an injured spirit that needs to be cared for from the inside out.

So, as you get ready to plan your workout routines to lose those extra pounds or tone up some specific areas, give yourself some well-deserved pampering through exercise!! Leave the gym and get outside and connect with nature! Walk! Do some yoga and just breathe!! Be gentle with yourself. Your health and fitness should not be a race to your personal finish line. It should be a journey. Why not smell the roses and enjoy the view?

The next time you look in the mirror, look for that beautiful smile and that calm spirit that will overshadow ANY outfit of ANY size ANY day!!