Many Yoga classes end on a positive note. Some of the methods a Yoga teacher might use, to end a class, are relaxation, meditation, affirmations, or a reading of profound philosophy. These methods may be used separately, or in combination with each other, but let's take a closer look at the power of positive affirmations.



Once upon a time, a business associate told me, "You can't just put on rose colored glasses and wish the world to be a good place." My answer was, "You have to start somewhere." An eternal optimist will cause more positive changes to the earth than a perennial pessimist. Yet, we must realize that affirmations are much more than wishful thinking.

Yoga teaches us to develop a healthy mind, and positive affirmations will do just that. Physical, emotional, and spiritual health are enhanced with the use of affirmations. Many elite athletes, politicians, and successful business people, have used positive affirmations to visualize an objective.

What is the purpose of a positive affirmation? Affirmations cause a form of manifestation from within. When you make a sincere declaration of intent to change from within, you make a quantum leap forward toward your goals and aspirations. Affirmations create subconscious programming, whether they are good or bad.

So, why not make sure your affirmations are positive? You will sleep much better at night. The worst that can happen is you will be accused of wishful thinking and being optimistic.

Here are a few examples of positive affirmations: "I attract kind and loving people into my life." "I freely give and receive the universe's bounty without effort." "I show loving kindness to others and love always comes back to me."

In each case, you are reinforcing self-worth and appreciating life for what it is. You are accepting people, the world, and the universe, without conditions.

Affirmations run parallel to Yoga practice, in that, they bring about a state of tranquility. You can use the power of affirmations to enhance mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health. Here are some tips for practicing affirmations.

Much like mantra practice, you should repeat your affirmations often. This is a form of mental programming. Therefore, make sure your affirmations are always positive. Focus only on positive outcomes to situations, when practicing affirmations. Never practice affirmations to wish suffering on others.

Be very specific about your affirmations. You should mentally be able to see, feel, and touch your affirmations. Experience the positive emotional lift of heart felt affirmations and your passion will manifest itself. Realize that affirmations must be followed by progressive action on your part.

Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications