Words have an incredible impact on our everyday lives, and we can get into the habit of saying things to ourselves repeatedly. Things like "I am so tired", "We don't have enough money," and "There is not enough time". The thing is that the more we negatively express things, the harder it is to bring forth the things we so desire. Let's do a quick experiment. Instead of saying, "I am so tired," how about, "I could use a luscious nap right now". Notice how each of these makes you feel in your body. The word tired brings forth a sluggish feeling and makes my eyes want to droop. What type of feelings pop into your mind hearing these words, worn out?
This is the importance of words. Allow your words to become your magical wand by becoming more intentional with the ones you choose to use. Especially concerning yourself.
This is how our words can become our magical wand and bring you power.
With the first example " I am so tired", all I want to do is curl up and hide, it drains my motivation and is not an empowering statement at all. However when saying "I could use a luscious nap right now." this just makes me want to finish the tasks at hand and make room for the self-care that my body needs. I get excited at the thought of making room for what my body is craving.
✨It is magical, isn't it?✨
I understand that this can be easier said than done. This is why taking it one small word at a time and with the tiniest of shifts, then even the words we use we can create an environment and container to create the magical changes we are so longing for.
That brings me to The Word of the Year.
I think back the many years ago when I started doing this exact practice without even realizing it. At the time my kids were in middle school ages (we home-schooled our three children.) And my New Year thing at that time was to pick a fear and conquer it. One year I was getting past my fear of heights so I could enjoy downhill skiing with my family. Another time was at the beginning of moving from my love of quilting and fashion into the world of textile art, spiritual self-growth and doing a deep dive study on icons like Audrey Hepburn.
You may be wondering "What is a mantra?" "How is it different from using affirmations?"
Mantras and affirmations are powerful tools for enhancing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, but they differ in origin, purpose, and application. Here's a breakdown of their key differences:
Origin and Tradition
Mantras:
These are rooted in ancient traditions and spirituality.
They are often written in Sanskrit and other sacred languages.
They are used to align the mind and body during meditations.
They can also be used in other ways, such as walking, taking a shower, or even driving the car. Mantras are at your disposal whenever and however you need them. This is the magical gift of words. I find them very helpful during times of stress or when feeling anxious.
Affirmations:
Affirmations stem from modern-day psychology and self-help practices.
They are focused on helping to shape our thought patterns and behaviours to create a positive mindset.
Purpose:
Mantras:
Mantras are designed to help in meditation with focus, enabling more spiritual growth. They help invoke a higher state of consciousness and connection with higher deities. They are wonderful to post up to remind you regularly of your focus for the year.
Affirmations:
Affirmations are great for those times when we need to focus or we find ourselves wavering in our belief systems, especially around our mindset and thought patterns.
Which Should You Use?
I like to create a mantra for the year to help guide me in staying focused and on track. I have it written down in many places and use it at the start and end of each day.
I use my affirmations like a cheerleading team to keep me going especially during times of feeling discouraged, bored or anxious. They are a multi-purpose tool, aren't they?
Another wonderful tool I use every month helps me greatly with letting go, re-accessing things, and focusing on action. It was just created to help you along your journey even more. The latest edition of my Full Moon Ritual Kit is now available. You can get it here.
Speaking of moon rituals, I am hosting a very special Pisces New Moon Ritual that will involve a special water ritual.
I would love for you to join me on February 27 live on my newly relaunched YOUTUBE channel for the Pisces New Moon Ritual, February 27 at 3:00 pm EST.
Wherever you may find yourself this coming new moon, please take the time, even if briefly, to set or reignite your intentions.
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