Creative thinking and a confident attitude can aid us in healing from life’s trials and tribulations. Using various body parts, we will demonstrate different ways to accept more of what we are dealt. But people coping with mental health issues, like myself, often struggle with this concept.
Norman Vincent Peale wrote a self-help book in 1952 titled The Power of Positive Thinking, which became – and still is – a practical guide for overcoming challenges and achieving success. It offers techniques for developing and sustaining a positive mindset in our daily lives. Overall, it has been a triumphant guide for many.
Does anyone recall this way of staying engaged? Try the following ditty.
Some of us might have danced to this as children: “You put your right foot in…” – the opening line of the children’s dance song Hokey Pokey. While originally for juveniles, it continues to entertain those who are kids at heart. At its core, the song teaches body awareness, listening skills, left-right discrimination, and the importance of following directions. Its lasting impact makes it meaningful to many.
In North America, Ireland, and Australia, the song is commonly titled Hokey Pokey, whereas in other parts of the world, it is known as Hokey Cokey or Hokey Tokey. Though each version has slight lyrical differences, the essence remains the same. The American version, popularised around 1949, symbolises joy and brings smiles worldwide. However, the song actually originated as a British folk dance, with variations dating back to 1826.
People like myself, who deal with mental health issues, appreciate songs and sayings that promote positivity. We must push forward by any means available. Using the entire body, as before, we move onwards in a constructive and beneficial direction.
William Shakespeare expressed this idea in Titus Andronicus and King John, coining the phrase “Put your best foot forward”, reminding us of humanity’s natural ability to advance successfully. Later, he modified it to “Put your better foot forward”, referencing the idea that most people have two feet.
Speaking of feet, more than thirty films include the word “foot” in their title. Two notable examples are My Left Foot (1989), starring Daniel Day-Lewis, which tells the story of Christy Brown – who, despite being born with cerebral palsy, learned to write and paint using only his left foot – and Five Feet Apart (2019), a romantic drama inspired by Claire Wineland, who lived with cystic fibrosis.
Stepping (pun not intended) into a new chapter of life can be daunting, especially for those with mental health challenges. We all deserve an easier path toward self-confidence and independence. Struggles are part of life, but they should not be overwhelming.
Show of hands: who understands? Perhaps just stand up and cheer. Never mind – I cannot see the hands raised or hear the applause, but I can imagine many agree. Hand gestures, after all, are a universal way of expressing approval.
A popular hymn, He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands, originally an African American spiritual published around 1927, carries a similar sentiment. About thirty years later, it became an international hit for teenage English singer Laurie London and was later recorded by many others. Meanwhile, in Greek mythology, Atlas was said to hold up the heavens – not the world – on his shoulders.
Some of us resonate with songs like I Left My Heart in San Francisco, sung by Tony Bennett, or My Heart Will Go On, made famous by Celine Dion. These themes of longing and perseverance are also reflected in Do You Know the Way to San Jose by Dionne Warwick and New York, New York, recorded by various artists. The latter’s final line, “If I can make it there, I’m gonna make it anywhere,” rings especially true.
Now, let’s apply the idiom “Use one’s head,” when thinking critically and generating new ideas. This is easier for some than for others, particularly those with mental health challenges or traumatic brain injuries, which can affect cognitive function, movement, communication, and emotional regulation.
Paul Anka’s 1963 hit Put Your Head on My Shoulder and B.J. Thomas’s Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head (1969) both feature the word “head” in their titles, reinforcing its symbolic importance. Then there’s the well-known proverb: “Two heads are better than one.” But is this always true? While collaboration can be beneficial, it ultimately depends on the situation and the individuals involved.
Our head contains many features used in film titles. There are at least twenty-two movies featuring “ear” in the title, such as Prick Up Your Ears (1987) and Cover Your Ears (2023). Similarly, at least thirty-one films include “nose” in their title, such as On the Nose (2001) and The Spy with a Cold Nose (1966). While watching these films won’t necessarily boost confidence, they remind us of the significance of our body parts.
From head to toe, using our entire body can shape a more positive outlook. Only by engaging both physically and mentally can we enhance our well-being. This requires consistent effort, energy, and dedication throughout our lives. Each body part plays a crucial role in this process.
In the words of Ashford & Simpson, made famous by Diana Ross in 1970: “Reach out and touch somebody’s hand.” As members of the human race, let’s strive to do our best each day and support one another. Who knows? The world just might become a more positive and confident place for all.
Howard Diamond is a certified peer specialist from Long Island, New York.
