Well•come, kin. Pause, and take a deep, calming breath with me. In… and out… As you breathe, remind yourself of your innate wisdom and wholeness. With each breath—be here. Fully present, as we embark on this journey together.
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LaShaun
Certified behavior analyst, founding former Director of The University of South Florida’s (USF) Wellness Resource Center, Founder of GLOW Women’s Gathering with credentials in Neuroscience for Business from MIT Sloan.
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a word to the wise (pun intended!)
—your words.
can birth life into your life
: or not.
wand or weapon?
balm or bomb?
salve or sabotage?
There’s a clear connection between words, our minds, and our bodies.
I used to say to myself, “I want to feel the way peace sounds.”
Do you ever feel the calming effect of saying the word, ”peace”?
Words can have a profound impact on our well-being, and science is finally catching up to what ancient wisdom has known for centuries.
Ancient Wisdom: Proverbs and spiritual texts throughout history emphasize the power of words to heal, inspire, and uplift. The concept aligns with practices like mantras, where repeating a word or phrase helps focus the mind and achieve a calmer state.
The Science of Words: Research shows that using positive language can activate stress-reducing genes. Studies by Herb Benson and Dr. Mark Waldman suggest that repeating “value words” can significantly lower stress levels.
I love it when science (finally) catches up with the sacred texts. Don’t you?
Let’s do a little experiment of our own. Say these words and pay attention to how they feel rolling off your tongue? How do they land in your body? What is the structure of your thoughts?
- fight
- attack
- violence
- abuse
- worry
- loneliness
- shame
- failure
- sorrow
Words like these can evoke negative emotional responses and increase stress or anxiety.
Now, say these words:
- calm
- elysian
- bliss
- harmony
- glowing
- safe
- honey–sweet
- empathy
- woo-sah! (I couldn’t help myself)
Words like these can evoke positive emotional responses and are often used in practices aimed at reducing stress and promoting well-being.
Words are like a code to your soma and soul temples.
They are like linguistic instruments that affect your mind, gene expression, and energy levels.
Repetition helps. Repeated exposure to something—a word, a thought, an idea, colors, or music amplifies its propensity to rise to the surface of your consciousness.
Repeatedly focusing on words like love, peace, and compassion will turn on specific genes that lower your physical and emotional stress. Mindfully choosing your words has a net positive benefit for your well-being.
Now that’s truly awesome—in the original context of the meaning of the word—”awesome” meaning , ”inspiring reverential awe”.
The concept of “your word is your wand” holds true, and there are levels to its effectiveness.
According to Psychology Today, “Scientists have shown that creating positive sentence structures can induce a physical response that increases strength. Saying, ‘Yes, I can do this!’ can create a self-fulfilling prophecy.”
Here’s the thing:
My positive or negative triggering words are probably different from yours. It’s deeply personal.
Try this practice to develop your palette of power words or phrases.
Finding Your Power Word(s): A Calming Practice
Step 1: Uncover Your Core Value
- Find a quiet space and take a few deep breaths to center yourself.
- Ask yourself, “What is the most important value that guides me in life?” Don’t overthink it – trust your intuition.
- Jot down the first word that comes to mind, without judgment. Repeat this step twice more, writing down a new word each time.
Step 2: Choose Your Power Word
Look at your list of words. Which one resonates most with you right now? This is your “power word” for today.
Step 3: Supercharge Your Well-Being
Repeat your power word for the day silently or aloud for a few minutes each day. This practice can help:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve sleep quality
- Increase focus and calm during challenging situations
How to integrate this into your life:
Repeat your power word for a few minutes each day. You can do this silently or aloud, whichever feels most comfortable.
Use your power word before stressful situations. Taking a few moments to silently repeat your word can help you stay calm and focused.
Incorporate your power word into your sleep routine. Repeating your word as you drift off can promote relaxation and peaceful sleep.
Remember: There’s no “right” answer for your power word. Choose what feels most meaningful to you in the moment.
Mindful word choice is a truly powerful tool. Repeating value words can not only shape your consciousness but also bring about profound physical and emotional benefits. Whether you are calming your mind or seeking motivation, let your words guide you toward a more well and stress-free life.
If anything you’ve read here has been resonant, nourishing or of service to you in a meaningful way, please do, share this email series using your special link below. I appreciate your reciprocity.
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In sharing, you contribute to a bigger picture – a world pulsating with well-being and wholeness. We’re grateful for you!
