For decades, women have been encouraged to examine their breasts regularly as a way to find breast cancer at the earliest possible stage, get it treated early, and thus save their lives. This has led to a “search-and-destroy” approach to breast exams that encourages you to make your hands into mine sweepers in search of something that may kill you. No wonder so many women skip this routine but end up feeling guilty as a result.
Girls feel the sex drive in their bodies long before they are psychologically ready to commit to marriage and the demands of a mature relationship. That’s why some indigenous cultures have sanctioned sexual experimentation among young people so they can “get it out of their systems” early on.
My life’s work has been about creating health through accessing our inner wisdom — the part of us that lives deep within — the part that heals our skin when we scrape ourselves and keeps our nails and hair growing even when we’re not thinking about it. Accessing and living from this deep inner place—and letting it guide your life — is the most practical and effective way there is to live joyfully and fully — regardless of what’s on the news and how many cars are going to the mall.
During puberty, the degree to which we are supported to become who we really are by our families and social networks is the degree to which we will bloom and remain healthy. When we are not fully supported in becoming who we really are, however, we are at increased risk for developing illness or mood disorders at adolescence.
Puberty involves a series of hormonally mediated changes in a girl’s body and brain. Although many people think of puberty as an event marked by the first menstrual period, the term in fact refers to the entire developmental sequence that leads to sexual and reproductive maturity.
Not only is your daughter’s body changing from that of a girl to that of a sexually mature woman, her brain and emotions are also changing rapidly. In short, she is preparing to become a more independent member of her family and society. This is the time when her unique, inborn gifts and talents are ripe for recognition and in-depth development.
This 5,000-year-old Eastern discipline has grown popular in the West not only for its physical benefits, but also for its mental and emotional benefits. Yoga literally means “to join together.”
This is one of my favorite forms of exercise. It is a body-conditioning program that targets the deep core muscles that support you. The technique was developed by Joseph Pilates, a German athlete who studied many different sports and developed his method and equipment to complement traditional training programs for athletes.
Strength training is important for keeping your muscles strong. In addition, strengthening the major muscle groups in your body puts stress on your bones and thus helps to keep them strong. When your muscles and bones are strong you can move with less effort and greater enjoyment in all your activities.
I’m a big fan of walking. It’s great for cardiovascular training and also helps keep your bones strong because it is a form of weight-bearing exercise. And you don’t need any fancy equipment, so you can do it anywhere. Walking is also a great energy booster when you feel tired, and a perfect alternative to reaching for a sugary snack around 3-4 pm.
