“Love Spreads”: Affirmations for Purpose and Wellbeing

As much as I try to be, I am not a morning person. Recently, experimenting with affirmations has helped me to find purpose and a calmer mental state amidst the typical chaos of my early hours.

Being a beginner, I wanted to dig deeper. Exploring the origins of affirmations, I found their use in cultivating inner wisdom and strengthening a sense of connection with others around me — including complete strangers as I went about my day!

To find out more from an expert perspective, I had the pleasure of interviewing the lovely Sasha of Shanti Yoga. Our discussion took us on a journey through the origins of affirmations, starting with traditional Sanskrit mantras, tracing their assimilation over centuries into Western culture and today’s popular mainstream media. I wanted to discover why affirmations are having a moment, and why they could be your new favourite morning practice. 

With a unique ability to resonate deeper than just positive thinking, one could even claim that affirmations have the power to change the world. In a conversation with Sasha, founder of Shanti Yoga, I explored their profound and fascinating impact on both our inner worlds and external experiences. 

‘Mantras’ and ‘Affirmations’, what’s the connection?

The Sanskrit word 'mantra' simply translates to 'instrument or tool of the mind.' Mantras have been integral to Hinduism and Buddhism since time immemorial. Although they may seem intangible and mystical in their ancient wisdom, upon deeper enquiry, I began to realise the true simplicity in what affirmations have to offer us.

P: So, I’ve been wondering, where do these mantras come from? What’s their story, and how have affirmations become so familiar in modern Western culture?

S: Traditional mantras have their origins in Sanskrit, with a history stretching back thousands of years, even before the physical practice of yoga. They were primarily used in Hinduism and Buddhism, with mantras often associated with deities, like the Ganesha mantra for removing obstacles. Over time, these mantras have been adapted into English and incorporated into Western practices, but their essence remains the same: as tools to tap into specific energies and to help clear our minds.

P: Sometimes affirmations seem easy, like, how can something so simple be so powerful? What’s the secret?

S: Yes, I agree. One of the things that has always struck me about affirmations is their simplicity. From the outside, they might seem complex, but when you sit down and engage in a simple meditation with affirmations, you realise it's not complicated at all. It's a straightforward concept that doesn’t always require much brain power, yet it has a profound impact on every cell in your body.

P: I’ve noticed how affirmations help me connect better with others. How does that happen?

S: Affirmations and mantras can significantly influence how we connect with others. When we generate love from within, it starts radiating into the people around us and our relationships. It's true that love spreads. And when we strengthen it within ourselves, it naturally expresses itself in our communities, relationships, and even with total strangers. This can indeed be a powerful tool, especially in a world that often feels overwhelming.

P: I’ve read somewhere that affirmations can even impact your physical health. How does that work?

S: It is believed that there is a strong connection between physical health and affirmations. For example, heart-related affirmations can help open up the energy in the chest. Many holistic therapists subscribe to the idea that if energy is blocked in certain areas of the body for too long, it can lead to physical ailments. Using affirmations as part of a holistic approach could prevent these issues and promote your health.

P: When you use those heart-focused mantras, it can really shift your whole energy? How does that even work, especially with the heart?

S: When we talk about mantras, especially those related to love and self-compassion, we're often focusing on the heart chakra. In yoga, the heart chakra isn't just the biological heart but encompasses the entire chest area. When we experience heartbreak, lack of self-love, or grief, the energy in our heart can slow down or even close off. By using heart-focused mantras, breathing into the heart, and visualising an open heart, we can help that energy start spinning again, leading to both emotional and physical healing.

P: I’ve got to admit though, sometimes when I try those self-love affirmations, it’s difficult. Why do they feel so uncomfortable for some?

S: Working with affirmations, especially love-related ones can be quite challenging for many people. It's not as if you say the mantra once and that's it; it can bring up a lot of feelings. For instance, when I first started working with the "I love myself" mantra, it made me realise that despite all the work I thought I'd done on self-love, there was still more to be done. It's not easy to have that relationship with yourself, it’s not a simple journey for everyone, but it's something to definitely keep working on.

P: Agreed. When things get too stressful, I find grounding affirmations seem to help. How exactly do they support us emotionally?

S: Affirmations play a crucial role in maintaining mental and emotional balance. For instance, when there's unrest or overwhelming change, like what's been happening with recent unrest, it's essential to use grounding affirmations. These mantras help us feel more rooted, secure, and emotionally balanced amidst the chaos. Whether it's focusing on heart mantras or grounding through breath and meditation, affirmations provide the support needed to navigate life's continual challenges.

P: It’s sometimes frustrating that, even when I use affirmations, doubt often creeps in and I struggle. How do you stay connected to what feels right in those moments?

S: Affirmations are not just about repeating positive phrases; they're about tuning into what feels right for you in that moment. Sometimes, certain affirmations may not resonate, and that's okay. The key is to slow down, tap into your awareness, and feel what you need. If something doesn't feel right, don't force it. Instead, explore what might work better for you at that time. It's about being in tune with your needs and allowing space for whatever emotions arise here.

P: When I am in a flow with it, the more I repeat affirmations, the more they seem to stick. So, why is repetition so important for making affirmations work?

S: The repetition of affirmations is key to their effectiveness. It's not about saying a mantra once and expecting immediate results. Consistent repetition helps to reprogram our mindset, gradually shifting our thoughts from negative patterns to more positive and empowering beliefs. Over time, this practice can lead to significant changes in how we perceive ourselves and the world around us.

Scientific backing is also leading to affirmations being discussed in more mainstream spaces. One captivating piece reveals that self-affirmations spark the brain's "reward" circuits, lighting up areas that boost positivity and energise your mind, turning your thoughts into a powerful force for growth. Whilst other studies point towards affirmations as a method to not only boost self-worth, but also to reduce perceived public stigma, strengthening bonds between people and improving relationships.

Set the tone today

Consistent practice sets your day off right and can even bring about profoundly life-changing results.

The power of affirmations can help in boosting personal wellbeing as well as building a beautiful sense of connection and belonging, relating to others at a deeper level.