By Mark Greenwald

With the recent release of "The Secret" DVD, more and more people are discovering what philosophers and scholars have speculated about for thousands of years: the law of attraction. The principle of this law, simply put, is that 'like attracts like.' For example, if you have a negative view of the world and feel down about yourself, you project that energy outward and attract more of it into your life. Thankfully, this law works both ways; if your outlook on the world and yourself is positive, you will attract positive energy.

Science has also proven that our thought patterns actually affect us physiologically. Changes in bodily processes like metabolism and heart rate have been repeatedly documented. If our thoughts can cause such changes to occur in our bodies, why not use them as a catalyst for better health?

Mind and Body

Most of us don't realize just how strong the connection between mind and body is. Once the mind has adopted a certain pattern, it can be very difficult to change. That's where a process called 'setting the intention' comes in. First, you create a space for yourself where you see your body as a temporary but important shelter for your spirit, whichrequires nourishment and proactive care. Then, you explain to your body that, although you may still feed it junk food, those times will soon be fewer. Make this intention clear to your body for one month - go out of your way to integrate it with your thoughts, words, and spiritual meditation. Visualize your body as healthy. See yourself breathing, moving, and enjoying a healthier body. Picture yourself in a body that thanks you for taking care of it. Feel the rewards, pleasure and gratitude that flow from your new lifestyle. Approximately every other day, relax strict regimens and take some time to enjoy yourself, without compromising your commitment to nourish and care for your body.

Motion

Once you've created this space and set your intention, it's time to put that intention in motion. Gradually take the necessary steps to change your lifestyle for the better, and turn your vision into reality. Concentrate on making small weekly changes that build on each other.One week, your goal might be to conduct research on nutrition authors or healthy foods. The next week, you could identify two of those healthy foods to incorporate into your diet. Live each moment as though you were 25 pounds slimmer and already living the healthy lifestyle you desire. Be and feel the changes you want to see 10, 20 or 30 weeks from now.

Gratitude

Gratitude is as important as visualization during the process of setting your intention. Begin each day with gratitude for everything in your life (the negative included). Compliment yourself for every healthy choice and change you make, no matter how small. Once you know how to successfully create a positive space within and without, the possibilities are endless, and you will be that much closer to achieving the healthier lifestyle you seek.