I’ve spent a lot of time this week revisiting the art of affirmations. An affirmation is, by definition, a postiive statement we say to ourselves to affect change or offer encouragement in the face of change.

I totally believe in affirmations. There is nothing stronger than our self-talk. The words, phrases and messages we repeat in our mind sink deep into our sub-conscious and form not only our attitudes but also our outlook. If the talk is positive, it follows that our outlook and our way of handling situations and stresses are also postiive. The same for negative self-talk (hard to call them affirmations when they are negative, but the truth is more often than not, our self-talk is more limiting and negative than uplifting and positive)

I’ve taught affirmations and used them in my practice. I’ve seen the great results and firmly believe in their power. But like anything else (exercise, anyone?) even knowing its good for me, its necessary to a healthy mind and outlook, I tend to let the habit of using affiramtions fall by the wayside. Especially when things are going well and life is smooth and easy.

Then weeks like the last couple hit and I remember why I should have been practicing the art of affirmations. Its like taking vitamins… they’re just good for you.

Have you ever used affirmations? Do you believe in the power of postiive self-talk? What other habits do you find serve you wonderfully well, but tend to get dropped in the hustle bustle of life (especially when things are going well) that you revisit at times of stress?