Affirmations have become a popular tool in promoting positive thinking and improving mental health. They are simple phrases or statements that are repeated to oneself with the intention of influencing subconscious thoughts and beliefs. However, not all affirmations are created equal. One key factor to consider when using affirmations is timing.
In this blog post, we will explore if there is a wrong or best time to use affirmations. We will also discuss why it is important to use affirmations when the statement is true and relevant to the current situation.
As caregivers and parents, it is beneficial to use affirmations with our children. We want to promote positive associations and help them develop a growth mindset from an early age. By using affirmations when their brains are in a relaxed and calm state, we can help them create positive beliefs about themselves and the world around them.
However, what often happens is we practice the affirmations in stressful situations. For example, I'll say "I am calm, I am calm" when things are stressful. While this is done with good intentions to help us actually become calm. What we're actually doing is helping our brains connect the word 'calm' with the stressful sensations our bodies are feeling. YIKES! We definitely don't want that.
So when is the best time?
The best time to use affirmations is when the statement is true and relevant to the current situation. So saying "I am calm" when you are actually calm. By using affirmations in a mindful way, we can train our brains to focus on positive thoughts and beliefs. As caregivers and parents, we have the power to influence our children's beliefs and create a positive foundation for their mental health and well-being. With tools like Metta Play's bilingual affirmation cards for kids, we can make learning and growth a fun and engaging experience.
Our bilingual affirmation cards are available here. It's made for kids and are designed to promote mindfulness, positive self-talk, and language learning through play. Incorporating affirmations into a yoga practice can create a powerful and transformative experience for children.