As I write this, I am looking at beautiful pictures that my friend, and fellow Mastermind member, Don took in Africa. To say I've been inspired by his work would be an understatement. I have been so deeply moved by Don's humanitarian work helping women and children in villages throughout Africa that I, along with the other members of our group, have committed to support his efforts in ongoing ways (most exciting of all, through a trip to Malawi with my family next year!)

And also as I write this article, my thoughts drift back to my young cousin, Katie, who at 29 years old, lost her brave battle with a brain tumor last week. Through Katie's inspirational campaign, "The Power of One," Katie encouraged all of her followers (and there were many!), to recognize our own power to make a difference in the world. Katie's presence (her LIFE) was a reminder to step up and share your gifts. Katie lived large and didn't hold back, and though her life was too short, she brought beauty, joy and light to countless people.

It's in this vein that I write to you today. Not with a heavy heart, but with a mirror reflecting back to you your own strength and power and gifts. (And the importance of sharing them with the world).

Because here's what I think (actually, I don't just think it, I know it):

Most of us have NO CLUE how much power we really have within us; power to bring forth our own individual "light" and make a difference in the world in a way that inspires YOU, creates meaning for YOU, and connects YOU with your passion and purpose... And, in so doing, lights up the world.

And just so I don't get too far off track, let me assure you, this has everything to do with your eating, your health, your wellbeing, and your body image.

In my practice, on a regular basis, I see a direct link between my clients' struggles with food, eating, body image, depression and anxiety, and their untapped passions, talents and gifts. As they begin to recognize and share their strengths and the things they long to do - the things that give their life pleasure and meaning - they often experience a release from the grip of their struggles. They begin to want to share their talents, their beliefs, and their gifts with other people. And guess what happens: anxiety decreases; food struggles decrease; self-esteem increases.

And science bears this out too (yea! It's not just some woo-woo ideaJ). According to a recent article by Meredith Maran in MORE Magazine ("The Activism Cure," March 2009), scientists have confirmed that, "people who give to others give healthier, happier lives to themselves." When we share with others, dopamine, a feel-good chemical in our brain, gets triggered, improving our moods. (Interestingly, dopamine has also been associated with the pleasure we get from eating sweets, which points to another benefit: Fire up your dopamine through sharing your passions, and you may be less likely to need the pint of Ben & Jerry's...)

As you tap into your passions and feel better, the world benefits too. It is effortless to give to others when you are giving from a "filled up" plate, when you are well-nourished and well-fed with things that turn you on.

Your gifts are your magic, and although you may not realize it, there are many people out here who need what you can share.

Copyright (c) 2009 Healthy Bodies, Happy Minds