Haven’t we all been in that awful place [at one time] when we’ve looked in the mirror and absolutely hated what we saw?
 

When I was 15, I was told I was ADHD, anxious, depressed, and even at one point anorexic. Everyone had an opinion and those opinions stuck with me and became my identity. And I feel like there are a million girls out there that are going through the exact same thing.
 

Singer-songwriter Ilana Harkavy wants to empower girls to be the utmost honest version of themselves. (Photo courtesy of The Just Girl. Project)

A couple of years ago, I stumbled upon a startling subculture: social media accounts devoted to the promotion of anorexia, bulimia, and self-harm. It broke my heart. Not only did I feel saddened by these negative messages, but I also related to these accounts. I’ve suffered from an eating disorder. It held me back. I’ve never ever wanted to admit it, but now I’m finally coming forward, stripped down to my absolute worst and letting everyone know that…
 

And that’s why I wanted to create music.
 

I’ve been singing and songwriting my entire life, and I’ve always had a passion for all things girl culture. I am unabashed to admit I’ve always wanted to be a pop star, so I figured I’d utilize my talents for good.
 

My music is about the ongoing struggles that I’ve faced as a girl growing into a woman. They have completely shaped who I am today. I only wish that I could have had someone help me through a lot of what I went through. I now want to provide something functional and relatable that can spread positivity, inspiration, and realness to girls going different hard issues. Singer-songwriters like Cindy Lauper, Alanis Morissette, & Tori Amos did that for me… and today, I want to do that for girls around the world, too.

I debuted my first solo, Just, Girl. from my extended play, The Just, Girl. Project – a fiery musical movement that empowers girls to embrace their passions, to be blatantly honest, and to take ownership of their individual struggles.
 

I believe this movement is so important because it grounds my music with intention and will hopefully allow other artists to do the same. I want to create a global movement where music speaks to girls on their level. To me, when you brand something with a purpose, it becomes more universal and let’s be honest…it’s a great way to get people’s attention. I truly believe that this project has the ability to revolutionize music and girl culture.
 

On a more personal level, writing this music was very cathartic. It allowed me to be honest and to talk about my desire to change the things that have held me back throughout my life. It’s really like a version of a pep talk that I’ve given to myself.

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I want to speak to girls. I want them to know that it’s OK, to be OK and that you shouldn’t attack yourself every day. You should try your absolute best to love yourself and to try to better yourself by loving yourself every day.
 

I guess we all have the people we want to touch.
 

For me, it’s the women of tomorrow.
 

Harkavy: “I want to create a global movement where music speaks to girls on their level.” (Photo courtesy of The Just, Girl Project)

FIRST: Have a plan.
 

TWO: Don’t ignore your “haters”! Welcome their criticism and feedback.
 

THREE: Stay true to your intentions.
 

FOUR: Just Do It! No one likes a talker. Be a fearsome doer!
 
 

Interested in finding out how you can support Ilana Harkavy’s project or buy her music? Then, click here.
 

Need A Massage? Learn How To Give One To Yourself And Your Loved Ones

7 months ago by Aaron 4 min read No comments

Receiving a massage, whether it’s given by someone else or self-administered, can help loosen your muscles and establish a better connection not only with your body but also with the people you love.