Affirmations 101
Written by A. Simon
Copyright - Minnesota Kid’s Yoga Co. LLC
What exactly are affirmations, and why should parents care about them…
As parents, teachers, and human beings, we are constantly bombarded with information, advice, and tips on how to live a better life. Let’s face it…. half of the information you take in — you forget about. Further, the other quarter of information doesn’t apply to you, and the last quarter sounds wonderful in theory — if only you had more time!
Well… affirmations are one thing you can ACTUALLY achieve, and it takes little to no time at all! So, let’s get down to the basics.
What are affirmations?
Affirmations are positive statements you give to yourself and others (like your kids). They can be given mentally (to yourself), through written form (via text or paper & pen), or verbally through speech! They include statements such as, “I love how kind you are to our family.” or “You inspire me to try harder and be healthier.”
Why do we need affirmations?
Besides the obvious fact that affirmations make you and others feel good — affirmations create a lifestyle which reflects a glass half full! In other words, when you give affirmations to yourself and your kids for instance, you begin changing your mindset and naturally become more positive. When you think about people who you aspire to be, or people you look up to, one of the common denominators or traits is that they are positive people. Positive people share a contagious energy that genuinely makes us smile! Further, if you look at history, my point is driven home!! Reflecting on inspiring people such as: Mahatma Ghandi…. Mother Theresa…. Nelson Mandela…. Martin Luther King, JR. … etc. These people not only made a difference with their drive to change the world, but also impacted us because of their kindness and positivity toward others.
How do affirmations change our mindsets and health?
A recent article “The Power of Positive Thinking” published by John Hopkins Medicine stated that simple acts such as smiling or laughing more can reduce blood pressure and heart rates. Also, having consistent positive thoughts gives people a 13% less likely chance of struggling with various cardiovascular diseases. Lastly, positivity affects your immune system, which affects your overall health!
How can I make affirmations part of my daily routine?
In a recent article called “17 Habits of People Who Are Always Positive” by Bustle, it is suggested that in order to become a more positive person you do some of the following things:
Write down your goals.
Be kind to others, no matter how different they are.
Have respect for yourself and your personal needs.
Think and talk positive to yourself.
Laugh a lot.
Spend time with people you love, and tell them you love them!
Remind yourself to be more grateful.
Review your day, your successes, your future goals, and your strengths.
So, with all of that advice, here is one thing you can do today. Think a positive thought towards yourself!! Better yet, say a positive statement to your child!
What do affirmations have to do with parenting and/or kids yoga?
When we talk with love and kindness, is sets a tone that inspires your child to be their best! SelfSufficientKids.com states that the words we speak become the thoughts we believe! Kids crave moments where they feel supported, safe, and loved. They also crave moments where mom/dad feel proud of them! When you tell your child an affirmation such as, “I like how hard you work to learn new things.”, you send a message to your child that you care.
In yoga class, parents and children should always start and end with affirmations! Why? To keep the joy alive! If kids feel joy as a child, they will continue to carry that joy into their adulthood. A life filled with happy memories, creates a life filled with positivity.
In conclusion, you cannot tell your kids nice things enough! DUH… right?! But really, try to start and end each day with an affirmation to each of your kids! I promise your family climate will be a happier one!