Today, on my 30th birthday, I can't help but reflect on the past decade and how my thoughts and language toward aging have evolved over the years...
I used to often tell myself negative phrases such as "I am getting old," but now I understand the powerful impact these phrases have on the subconscious mind. When we use negative language such as "I am getting old," our subconscious mind starts to process and internalize that message, leading to negative thoughts and beliefs about aging.
These negative thoughts and beliefs can manifest in various ways, such as decreased physical activity, poor self-care, and negative attitudes toward aging. This can lead to a decline in overall health and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
The subconscious mind is also responsible for our automatic behaviors, such as our habits and routines. When we have negative thoughts and beliefs about aging, these negative thoughts can influence our actions and behaviors. For example, if we believe that we are getting old and cannot do certain things, we may stop engaging in physical activity, neglect our health, and adopt unhealthy habits.
That is why for the past few years, I have been actively working to change my self-talk and thoughts about aging by adopting positive phrases such as "I am abundantly healthy" or "I am so grateful and thankful for my strong and healthy body and mind". The results have been astounding. I have seen a major difference in my overall health and lifestyle, from increased physical activity, and better self-care, to healthier habits.
However, it's not only our personal thoughts and language that can impact our health and well-being as we age. Society often stigmatizes and devalues aging, which can lead to negative self-talk and attitudes.
It's important to recognize that aging is a natural process and that we should focus on maintaining our health and well-being throughout our lives. By challenging societal attitudes, seeking out positive role models, and building supportive communities, we can further promote positive self-talk and a positive outlook toward aging.
There are several solutions that can help us to change our self-talk and attitudes towards aging, such as:
1. Mindfulness and self-reflection: By becoming aware of our thoughts and emotions, we can identify negative self-talk and work to change it.
2. Positive affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations to yourself daily, such as "I am aging gracefully" or "I am taking care of my health as I age".
3. Surrounding ourselves with positive role models: Seek out people who have a positive outlook towards aging and who are actively taking care of their health and well-being.
4. Building supportive communities: Seek out groups or communities who share similar values and attitudes towards aging, where you can find support and encouragement.
5. Engaging in physical activity and healthy habits: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can have a positive impact on our overall health and well-being.
6. Challenging societal attitudes: Speak out against negative stereotypes and stigmatization of aging, and promote a positive image of aging in media and society.
7. Stop using common phrases like "You only live once" and "I am here for a good time not a long time", these are self-sabotaging phrases because the truth is you live every day and your thoughts and actions determine how long you live and the quality of your days and you don't have to choose between having a good life and a long life... You can have both if you take care of your health and think thoughts that empower you instead of breaking you down.
Overall, by being mindful of our self-talk, choosing our words wisely, and treating ourselves with kindness and compassion, we can program ourselves for an abundance of health and well-being, as we age. By implementing these solutions, we can change our thoughts and beliefs about aging and ultimately improve our physical and mental health as we age.
There is no need to live life in pain every day, with your body breaking down. There is a better path, but you have to actively choose it and get out of your own way. I urge you to join me in making every day an opportunity to be your best self and live your best life.