Hi Briana C
Wish I was there to give you the biggest hug!
You're beginning an important journey in regard to serious self questioning. 'Who am I? What am I doing right or wrong (all perception)? How can I make changes?' I know many who don't give necessary change much thought at all, so you're ahead of them. You are highly conscious and asking 'How can I love myself? How can I reject feeling judged? How can I develop skills in keeping good physical and mental health?' Will let you in on a secret: I'm a 49yo mum of 2 and finally, after all this time, I've made it. I deeply love myself, I realise judgement from others is based on their less conscious belief systems and my mental health has never been this good. Yes, I've still got a bit of work to do on the physical aspect but I know I'll get there. What works for me - I've raised myself for years in little ways, largely on my own.
I've faced a number of challenges over the years, including coming out of depression. Whilst some folk raised me through my adult years by throwing bits of sage advice at me here and there and by bringing a smile to my face occasionally, I went higher. For example:
- My love of the spiritual/natural side of life received and still receives a lot of criticism ('You're weird, crazy'). I committed to it and maintained my love for it because it gave me a high. Doesn't mean I didn't cry occasionally and feel worthless with some self-doubt. But here I am today, feeling the way I do because of this passion and the sense of value and guidance it gives me
I just want to let you know that every time we face challenge, if we are conscious in raising our self to meet it - we rise, with or without help. The higher we rise, the more in love with our self we become.
Be careful when it comes to energy. Eat more. Eating a lot of healthy high energy foods comes with few calories (esp plant based stuff). If anyone wants to criticise, let them. In your mind you can be thinking 'You fool, can't you see I'm raising myself (and my metabolism)?!' Eventually folk may comment on how great you look which may lead you to think 'How shallow are you?!'
When we raise our self (beyond the limited thinking of others) they may begin to argue that we're living wrong. They can appear a little crazy. Don't let them bring you down, whilst you're aiming high!
Accept the challenge Briana. You're already on the path. What is the 1st way you can consciously raise your self on this path? Enjoy the high it gives you.
:)