02/17/2026
Henry James in the early 1900's wrote a quote in the book "Masters" often used by Mr Rogers in a message to children for decades. Three things important in life. "The first is to be kind. The second is be kind, and the third is be kind."
Kindness is a fundamental aspect of our true nature. Being kind has been shown to improve health. Loving kindness lengthens telomeres, boost beneficial gut bacteria, increases oxytocin and may even positively change your genetic code.
How to be kind when everyone around you isn't is the challenge. Ayurveda is the science designed to balance the mind and body enhancing self- awareness and a need to stop chasing external sources of happiness. Making lifestyle shifts help build a protective shield allowing you to sit in the eye of a storm with peace and calm. In this place you can view others and realize they need kindness. Through self-awareness you give yourself the greatest gift of being detached from the outcome, neither swooned by success or the fear of failure. You are able to feel compassion, a spontaneous expression of joy from your heart.
If you would like to meet and discuss how small, one degree, shifts in lifestyle make a difference in how you react in day to day situations, contact me by email or facebook messenger.
Valerie Parker MSN, RDN, RYT500, AHC
valerie@growwithtruenature.com
207 W. Water St
Sandusky, Ohio