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Writer's pictureAndi Johnson

Unleashing the Power Within: The Waterfall of Thoughts and Your Path to Empowerment


Long exposure of a small waterfall into a natural pool surrounded by mossy rocks and ferns

In today’s world, with the interconnectedness of social media, it’s easy to get swept up in the constant flow of our thoughts—much like standing beside a powerful waterfall. While there’s a natural beauty to the endless rush of water, there’s also an undeniable force that can overwhelm us if we’re not careful. Have you ever considered how our minds can be just like that? Just as the water keeps pouring over the edge, our thoughts can flow endlessly, sometimes without direction. But here’s the key: your thoughts are the path to your own empowerment!


I’ve been reflecting on this a lot lately, especially as I’ve made some changes in how I interact with the world around me, particularly online. After years of regularly posting and engaging on social media, I decided to step back—not just from posting, but from the constant scrolling, liking, and commenting. And something incredible happened. As I spent less time engaging with the endless stream of online content, my anxiety started to decrease. I began to feel more grounded, more in tune with myself. My body, once constantly tense, started to regulate itself better. In fact, I was able to cut my hypertension medication in half after being on it for over 13 years.


Toketee Falls via overlook on a cloudy day

Much like the Toketee Falls I’ve pictured here, our thoughts begin with a gentle trickle. But over time, as we encounter more and more stimuli—social media, news, conversations, life—the trickle can grow into a torrent. Every post we read, every comment we scroll through, every picture we compare ourselves to adds another drop to the river that fuels the waterfall. Before we know it, our minds are rushing with thoughts, some positive, but many negative, creating an overwhelming cascade that affects our mental and physical well-being.


And this is where we have a choice. We can decide what we let into our mental reservoir. Just like a waterfall’s power comes from the streams that feed into it, our thoughts are shaped by what we expose ourselves to. When we consciously decide to filter out the noise—like I did by stepping back from social media—we regain control over our mental flow. And that is where you take back your power and allow your thoughts to empower you instead of draining you.


Shale Falls in Oregon

It’s been a game changer for me. Instead of the constant rush of comparison, stress, and anxiety, I’ve allowed my thoughts to slow down. I’ve created space for positive, empowering ideas to build up, just like water gathering strength before it plunges over the falls. Positive thoughts have a way of gaining momentum when we give them the space to grow, and they can fuel us with inspiration and motivation.


On the flip side, negative thoughts, much like debris caught in the current, can accumulate and drag us down. If we aren’t mindful, they build up until we feel powerless, disconnected from ourselves, and lost in a sea of doubt. That’s why stepping back, taking a breath, and choosing what thoughts we nurture is so important.


Now trust me, I know how hard it is to stop the cycle of doom thoughts and this is something I practice daily. But the best part? You(!) control the flow. You hold the key to your own mental floodgates. Just as a waterfall is shaped by its environment, we can shape our minds by curating what we allow in. By consciously choosing to fill our minds with positivity, wisdom, and inspiration, we create a mental environment that supports growth and resilience. And this doesn't have to be an all or nothing practice. This is something to slowly build up over time. Think of it as a rain bucket acummulating water. Each time it rains, whether a light rain or a storm, the bucket begins to fill up. So too, can your thoughts retrain and fill your brain. Some days you may only be able to have a moment of positivity and empowerment, while other days you are nearly bursting to overflowing. And that is ok!


small waterfall trickle over mossy rocks with ferns into a reservoir

So, be intentional about what you consume—whether it’s the content you engage with, the people you spend time around, or even the thoughts you entertain. Every drop matters. As I’ve learned firsthand, by adjusting the flow of information and energy into your mind, you can reduce anxiety, improve your physical health, and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.


The waterfall of your mind has incredible power. With each positive thought, each mindful moment, you become the architect of your own well-being. You get to choose the direction of your mental flow, and ultimately, the quality of your life.



Multnomah Falls on an overcast day

✨ Affirmation

Like a powerful waterfall, my thoughts flow with purpose and positivity. I

nourish my mind with empowering experiences, knowledge, and inspiration. Each thought I entertain builds upon the next, propelling me toward my dreams and aspirations. I am the architect of my destiny, and I embrace the immense power within me to create a life of joy, abundance, and fulfillment.

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