Lifestyle Management Blog

Lifestyle Management Blog
Making space for a healthy lifestyle

Monday, July 1, 2013

Happy Independence Day


“Happy July 4th.”  “Happy 4th of July!”  On Thursday, this is what we will here from most people. 

What I say is “Happy Independence Day!”   On July 4, 1776, the members of the Continental Congress, on behalf of each and every colonist, signed the Declaration of Independence.
 On July 4, 2013, I challenge you to declare INDEPENDENCE from the tyranny of your eating disorder:  your behaviors, your thoughts, your feelings.   Those of you who know me know that I am all about milestones: holidays, life changes, important events that allow us to re-set ourselves and start anew.  Of course, you can do that each day.  AND on really important days, you have the opportunity to stand up and re-commit in a celebration of your life and your freedoms.  Consider these activities:
As you attend picnics with family and friends, choose being present with people over obsessing about your food issues or having behaviors that interfere with you enjoying your day.
When you see the American flag waving, put your hand over your heart and say the Pledge of Allegiance (hopefully you can remember itJ).   With your hand still over your heart, say “I pledge allegiance to myself.” Then spend a moment or two thinking about what that really means to you.
When you watch fireworks, think of using your healthy voice; how when you speak your truth, you will explode with flare, goodness and love, exciting yourself and all those around you.
 Think about one of the most famous phrases in history, from the Declaration of Independence:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”  Yes, this applies to you.  You have a choice to believe and live this truth!
When you lay your head down to rest, smile and be grateful for all you have in your life and how our forefathers fought for our freedoms. 
Now it is time for YOU to fight for YOUR freedom and your INDEPENDENCE from ED.
Happy Independence Day!
Ann Hull
The Hull Institute, LLC