Introduction: What is an Affirmation?
An affirmation is a positive statement that is designed to be repeated in order to reinforce positive thinking. It can be used to challenge or replace negative thoughts that are holding you back.
Ideally you need to pick a phrase, and regularly practise repeating it to yourself for a few minutes each day, to make long-lasting changes to thought patterns. When you say or think of your affirmation, it becomes part of your daily life and you are helping your mind to prioritise positivity over negative thoughts.
Why Do People Use Affirmations?
Research has proven that about 80% of the subconscious thoughts you have a day are negative ones. Affirmations help you to consciously think positive thoughts, so that it is easier to control the negative ones, and this can help you to make positive changes in your life.
People tend to use affirmations to reprogram the subconscious mind, and help to create the reality they want. There is a belief that what we believe about ourselves at a subconscious level can have a significant impact on day-to-day events and the manifestation of our desires.
When we feel good and positive, things tend to run smoother and we tend to attract positive things. However when we feel bad, and are sucked into negativity we tend to engage in behaviours which may cause negative outcomes.
The benefits of affirmation may include: motivation, helping someone to make positive changes in their lives, or to boost their self-confidence. They are helpful when you need a self-esteem boost, whether facing big life changes, high pressure at work, or life setbacks. They are also useful when you stack them on top of other healthy daily habits to help you function at your best.
Benefits of Using an Affirmation
Affirmation benefits include: Increased positivity, improved self-confidence and self-esteem, better control of negative thoughts, improved resilience to stress, improved productivity, and help to achieve your goals.
Evidence suggests affirmations can help you to perform better at work, mitigate the effects of stress, and stimulate areas of the brain that are more likely to effect positive changes in regards to overall health.
Top 6 Affirmations to improve your life and longevity
To get the most out of affirmations, you need to start a regular daily practice. Ideally 3-5 minutes at least twice a day. Try stacking the habit onto something you already do, like brewing your Reishi coffee in the morning or during a shower. Repeat the affirmation about 10 times, you can try combining it with visualisation for even better results.
You can come up with our own affirmation that reflects your values and addresses what you need the most, or you can find one online, or use affirmation cards or an app. There are so many affirmations covering different areas, from affirmations for confidence, to affirmations for happiness, and self love affirmations. Check out the below for some inspiration:
- I am exactly where I need to be now.
- I am loved and deserve love just the way I am.
- I focus on what I can change and let go of everything else.
- I welcome abundance into my life.
- Opportunities are all around me.
- I am grateful for the challenges that help me grow.
