Harness the Power of Energy Fields

From "Positive Energy," by Judith Orloff, M.D.:

We all know that energy comes from diet, sleep, and exercise. But we're also influenced by an extensive network of energy fields undetectable to our five senses. Think of gravity, the force of attraction to the earth's center, which holds us to the ground. Or magnetic fields: you remember those metal filings mysteriously drawn toward the magnet in grammar school science class. Similarly, there's an energy field or "vibe" emanating from everything we encounter, from food to friends to current events. Our response to these vibes is manifested in our energy level. What we usually think of in physical, emotional, and sexual terms, using words like, "My heart's racing," "I'm afraid," or "I'm aroused," are different expressions of subtle energy. If you're a particularly sensitive person who frequently feels drained or exhausted, this information can make the difference between an exuberant life and one you're constantly recovering from...

To begin, envision energy as conveying two qualities-either positive or negative. You must become acquainted with each to take charge of your health and moods.

You'll learn how to harness the power of positive energy-loving and nurturing forces from within, such as compassion, courage, forgiveness, and faith. (Being the best people we're capable of being brings wholeness to a broken world.) Or from without: supportive friends, creative work, the ability to laugh, or vibrant sexuality. Positive energy comes from an honoring of the Earth and all its creatures, a deep capacity for tolerance, as well as the passion to achieve a peaceful civilization. These are as central to our sustenance as food or oxygen.

You'll hone skills to combat and reverse negative energy, which enfeebles us, causing dis-ease. Negative energy keeps us small, unhealthy; it alienates us from our best selves. We may generate it with our own fear, self-loathing, rage, or shame-an emotional terrorism we inflict on ourselves without realizing the toll. Unless we're committed to identifying and healing such negative forces, they will enervate us.