The Transformative Power of Positive Thinking
Recovering from trauma, whether it's physical, emotional, psychological, or a combination of all, can be an incredibly challenging journey. In my experience, one of the most difficult tasks was changing the persistent "little voice in my head" – that constant reminder of everything going wrong with my body, mind, and life; the self-defeating thoughts.
My healing process has been lengthy and arduous, with my inner voice screaming loudly. How could it not be? Growing up with a mother who constantly labeled me as "a piece of shit" added another layer to the struggle. However, that's a story for another time.
Engaging in a self-help group became a pivotal part of my journey. The teachings, which I initially couldn't grasp, focused on self-reflection and how one reacts to life's challenges. After forcing myself to attend for several months, I began working with someone who had been in the group longer. This person, having hit rock bottom and now ready to serve, gave me my first assignment: text her three things I was grateful for every day. Seemingly impossible at first, considering my constant complaints about being broke and stuck in an unhealthy relationship, feeling sad, alone, and lost. Asking for help was something I didn't know how to do. Nonetheless, my task was clear – three things every day.
One day, I stumbled upon an experiment by the Japanese doctor, Dr. Masaru Emoto, who researched the impact of thoughts and intentions on water molecules[^1^]. Given that the human body is approximately 60% water, it made sense why I always felt terrible. My "little voice" was relentless, shaped by my past experiences. Determined to change, I started expressing gratitude daily. Initially, it was for small things like "I am grateful for the moon." Gradually, my inner voice transformed, becoming more supportive and encouraging. Over time, I learned to say beautiful things to myself, and now, that once cruel and ruthless voice is no longer acknowledged or heard.
I am aware of this pattern, and I acknowledge and let it go. I don’t entertain that part anymore. Instead, I say, “I am grateful for awareness,” and I move on. I will always have ups and downs; it is all part of being human. Like the saying goes, “Stars can't shine without darkness.”
[^1^]: Source: [The Wellness Enterprise - Dr. Masaru Emoto](https://thewellnessenterprise.com/emoto/)