Episode 03: You Are What You Eat
Cultivating a Holistic Diet for Mind and Spirit
Developing a nourishing diet for the mind and spirit is just as vital as tending to the body. Much like food sustains our physical health, what we consume through media, conversations, and our surroundings deeply impacts our mental and emotional well-being.
The Pitfalls of Gossip and Trash Entertainment
Listening to gossip can hurt our ability to think positively and creatively. Gossip pulls us into negative and judgmental talk, instead of uplifting and constructive conversations. It takes up our mental space and saps our emotional energy, leaving little room for inspiration and creativity. We get entangle in the web of peoples drama and trivial matters versus to focusing on things that truly matter. In short, gossip can make us see the world in a distorted way, leading us to judge others based on rumors instead of trying to understand them on a deeper and more empathetic level. This can block meaningful connections and collaborations, which are important for nurturing creativity and positive thinking.
Similarly, trashy shows and music can shape our thoughts and character. Media content directly influences our mindset and worldview by glorifying superficiality, materialism, and toxic behaviors. Exposure can desensitize us to substance and depth, prioritizing instant gratification over personal growth. Normalization of negative behaviors alters our perceptions of right and wrong, influencing character development. This content undermines potential for creativity and positive thinking, derailing cognitive and emotional well-being. To safeguard our minds, we must be mindful of the content and conversations, seeking out uplifting experiences aligned with our values.Here are essential considerations for crafting an all-encompassing diet for the mind and spirit:
What You Watch:
Be mindful of the visual content you absorb. Choose to view uplifting and thought-provoking documentaries, and movies that inspire creativity and positive thinking. Limit exposure to negative or distressing news and violent media, as these can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety.
Here are three recommendations for uplifting and positive shows that contain good moral or ethics lessons:
1. "Ted Lasso"
An American football coach from Kansas is hired to manage a British soccer team, despite having no experience with the sport. With his relentless optimism and unyielding kindness, Ted Lasso wins over the players and fans whilst also guiding them on a path to become the best version of themselves, proving that empathy and genuine human connection can triumph over adversity. As of now, "Ted Lasso" tops the list for its heartwarming and uplifting storyline, resonating with audiences through its themes of kindness and optimism.
2. "The Good Place"
"The Good Place" offers valuable lessons through its witty exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas, prompting its audience to reflect on their own actions and values. By following Eleanor Shellstrop's journey in navigating the afterlife despite her questionable past, the show highlights the importance of growth, redemption, and the impact of our choices on our eternal destination. Through its clever storytelling and humor, "The Good Place" serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the possibility of striving towards personal betterment, resonating with viewers who seek to lead more fulfilling and ethical lives in reality.
3. "The Arrow"
This show focuses on Oliver Queen, a vigilante who transforms into a heroic figure to protect his city. Throughout the series, positive reinforcements are demonstrated through themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the importance of teamwork. Viewers are shown the significance of personal growth, second chances, and the power of believing in oneself and others. The show promotes attributes such as perseverance, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring viewers to stand up for what they believe in and strive for justice.
What You Listen To:
The music, podcasts, and audiobooks we indulge in can significantly influence our mental state. Selectively curate a collection that uplifts and empowers, steering clear of content that elicits feelings of inadequacy or unnecessary agitation.
Here is a list of 10 well-known songs that inspire, uplift, or send a message of self-positivity:
"Roar" by Katy Perry
“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
"Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake
"Numb" by Linkin Park
"Happy" by Pharrell Williams
"Fight Song" by Rachel Platten
"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield
"Words" by Anthony David
"Thunder" by Imagine Dragons
"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
These songs are sure to lift your spirit, inspire self-positivity and nurture a great environment.
What You Talk About:
Engage in conversations that are meaningful and constructive. Surround yourself with individuals who offer support, encouragement, and intellectual stimulation. Seek discussions that foster growth and positivity.
What You Read:
Just as a balanced diet includes a variety of nutrients, a well-rounded reading list should encompass diverse genres - from motivational literature to fiction and beyond. Integrate material that broadens perspectives, sparks imagination, and fuels personal development in a positive way. One of my personal favorite authors is one who seems to have mastered the power of positive thought, Napoleon Hill.
Some of the most well-known Napoleon Hill books that delve into the power of positive thought are:
1. "Outwitting the Devil" - In this insightful work, Napoleon Hill delves into the concept of overcoming negativity and adversity to achieve success. The book explores the various ways individuals can outsmart the obstacles that hinder their progress and tap into their full potential. Hill's unique approach provides empowering strategies for confronting challenges and fostering a positive mindset.
2. "Think and Grow Rich" - This classic self-help book from Napoleon Hill focuses on the power of positive thinking and its impact on achieving success. Hill outlines the importance of maintaining a positive mental attitude and how it can influence one's ability to achieve their goals and attain wealth.
3. "The Law of Success" - Another influential work by Napoleon Hill, "The Law of Success" discusses the role of positive thinking in personal and professional development. Hill shares principles for achieving success through positive mental attitude and outlines how it can empower individuals to take charge of their lives and achieve their ambitions.
These books remain highly regarded for their insights into the power of positive thought and are valuable resources for anyone looking to cultivate a more positive mindset in pursuit of their goals.
Everything in Your Environment:
Design your surroundings to reflect tranquility and motivation. Consider incorporating elements of nature, such as plants and natural light, into your space. Consciously declutter and organize your environment to promote mental clarity and emotional equilibrium.
Concluding Thoughts:
By consciously curating what we expose our minds and spirits to, we can foster a more harmonious and fulfilling existence. Much like the adage "you are what you eat," we become the culmination of what we consume - in all its forms. Therefore, let's approach our mental and spiritual diet with the same dedication and discernment that we apply to our physical nourishment.
