AFFIRMATIONS

Research has shown that using affirmations to create positive thoughts about yourself can dramatically improve your body and mind. Here’s how to use affirmations in your life.

What are affirmations?

An affirmation is a positive statement you can repeat to yourself. By framing affirmations in the present tense, using positive words, and speaking as if the statement is a fact, you rewrite the language of your brain and adopt a positive outlook. 

Affirmations can help you give up destructive behaviour, feel better about your life, find a way to deal with grief or loss, improve focus, and create healthy habits.

How to use affirmations

First, you need to find an affirmation that speaks to you. It needs to conform to the three key factors:

1. Stated in the present tense (this can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but it’s this discomfort that encourages your brain to act).
2. Contains only positive words (no ‘can’t’ or ‘don’t’ – focus on the future you want to achieve)
3. Said as a fact. (so your brain will eventually accept it as a fact).

Then, you need to repeat this affirmation to yourself throughout the day. You might like to create a ritual of saying it to yourself every morning, or when you go to class. You could write it on the front page of your notebook or make it your phone’s screensaver. Some people like to combine touch with their affirmation – perhaps by tapping your hand, using EFT, or touching an area where you feel negative emotion.

Affirmations to try

Here are some affirmations you could try. You might also like to create your own based on the formula (present tense, positive words, stated as fact).

I am loving and loved.
It is easy for me to look in the mirror and say, “I love you.”
Today, I am overflowing with energy and joy.
I possess all the qualities I need to be successful.
I base my happiness on my own accomplishments and the blessings I’ve received.
I am courageous and I stand up for myself.
My efforts are supported by the universe.
My obstacles are moving out of my way. 
My life is already a miracle of change and I’m shaping my destiny.
I love everything about my body.
My body is healthy and full of energy.
I find opportunities to be kind everywhere I look.
I am present in every moment.
People treat me with kindness and respect, because I deserve it.
I learn from my mistakes.
I never give up.

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