The Transformational Power of Affirmations

The Transformational Power of Affirmations

by Amy Wood

Whether we use them consciously or not, affirmations are a part of our ongoing
thought process. By becoming conscious about our automatic thought patterns, we
can use the power of affirmations to our advantage, in our yoga practice and in our
day-to-day lives.

Types of affirmations

Often the affirmations we use are negative (“I’ll never get that job,” “I’m not
good enough,” “I’m fat”), and they keep us from achieving our ultimate goals.
Unfortunately, these affirmations come quite naturally to many of us, as self-
criticism is something of the norm these days. However, we can counter these
negative affirmations with strong positive ones.

Positive affirmations are statements of truth meant to uplift and empower. They can
be transformational tools in one’s spiritual journey, helping to improve mood and
overall outlook on life. When we take control of our thoughts and choose to fill our
minds and hearts with positive affirmations rather than negative ones, we become
spiritually stronger and more resilient.

Health benefits

In addition to the spiritual benefits, there are also health benefits associated with
affirmations and positive thinking. These benefits could include the following:

• increased lifespan
• reduced rates of depression
• strengthened immune system
• reduced risk of heart disease
• better coping mechanisms during times of stress

Finding the right affirmation

The Internet is an excellent resource for finding examples of positive affirmations.
Check out your local bookstore, too, which might carry a selection of meditation
books packed with affirmations.

If you’d like to get a bit more personal with your affirmations, consider writing them
yourself. A great exercise is to write out all the negative thoughts you have about
yourself; for example, “I’m useless,” or “I don’t deserve happiness.” Then flip these
statements to their positive form: “I’m useful,” “I deserve happiness.” You can even
beef these statements up a bit so that they are more powerful to you: “I’m a hard-
working, contributing member of society,” “I am a good person, and I deserve love,
happiness, and joy.”

Incorporating affirmations into your daily life

To really experience the transformational benefits of affirmations, it’s best to repeat
them to yourself several times a day. To begin with, try saying them out loud to
yourself for five minutes, three times daily (morning, afternoon, and evening).
Writing your affirmations down in a notebook several times a day may also help.

The affirmations you find and create may also be beneficial when paired with
different asanas during your personal yoga practice. When we practice yoga, we are
in a relaxed yet focused state. Including affirmations during this state of mind may
heighten their effects.

Further, at the end of your practice recite your affirmations to yourself. As many
group yoga classes end with an affirmation, you too can seal your practice with a
powerful statement of truth.

Namaste.

Copyright Beach Yoga & Wellness, Inc 2012

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