Photoshop Detox, Daily Inspiration, and Kindness Cultivation

Hi, dears!  I somehow managed my way through another AP test yesterday, followed by an afternoon of volunteering with preschoolers, which was, needless to say, quite interesting.  Preschool conversations, when they're not entirely random and ridiculous, can be intriguing to listen to. They're very unfiltered...
Speaking of which, today I wanted to talk a little bit about something that's been on my mind recently: Photoshop.  I really enjoy photo editing (adding color, changing textures, etc.), but, while it's a fun tool, Photoshop can also be incredibly dangerous.  It's a way for people to totally alter reality, and Photoshopped images establish unrealistic standards. Because of the media and the way it constantly bombards us with Photoshop, we're becoming increasingly preoccupied with looks and reaching "goals" that are, for the majority of us, impossible unless we sacrifice our health and sanity. I'm not trying to be a "hater" or anything....I love admiring the dresses and styles in magazines just as much as the next person.  But it's important that we recognize that a lot of what we're seeing in the media is false.  It's the product of expensive technology and software, not nature, and we shouldn't prioritize molding ourselves into what is perceived as "perfect" before maintaining true health.
But isn't reaching those "goals" what true health is?
No, not at all.
"True health" is leading a lifestyle that is flexible, happy, and kind. It is engaging in movement because it makes you feel good about yourself, not because it punishes you or breaks you down.  It is not feeling obsessive or restrictive.  It is establishing a symbiotic, mutually appreciative relationship between your body and your soul.  Be your own friend!  Remind yourself that so many of the goals being established by the media are commercial and meant to support a major industry, not to make you feel truly happy.  I know this all sounds challenging. I understand. I'm there.  But part of "true health" is understanding that it's a process and that you don't need to be perfect all the time, and another important element of it is knowing that, by being a happy, loving person, you're making the world better because negativity often spurs more negativity.  So what are we waiting for?  Let's do it!  Let's get rid of the obsessiveness and free ourselves from the chains created by unrealistic expectations.  Let's live instead of just existing.  We can do it, and I believe in you.

Louise Hay

<3 Frances