by Nischala Joy Devi.
May 15, 2013.

Our words and verbal expressions are powerful imagery. Affirmations have become a well-known way to inspire us to positive imagery. There is an ancient yogic technique called Pratipaksha Bhavana that simply means, “to cultivate the opposite.” If you are fearful and want not to feel that fear, cultivate courage. If normally critical, cultivate understanding. When we begin carefully to choose words and phrases that help to promote the positive, the negative automatically lessons.

For instance, you could say something like, “I am feeling strong and courageous about the meeting today.” Your knees may be knocking, but your conviction is strong. After a time, the positive words and thoughts will affect knees that are even shakier!

When forming a positive affirmation, it is important to leave out any negative influences. People often use phrases like: “I am not going to eat any junk food today.” When interpreting this, the mind can easily negate the “not.” In a flash, the positive is turned into a negative: “I am going to eat junk food today.” It’s better to state it in a positive way: “All the food I eat today will be healthy and nutritious.” Do you see the difference? How much better and stronger the second version feels!

The softness or harshness of your speech reflects on you as well as others. It is not only what we say, but also how we say it that is important. The ancient yogic scripture the Bhagavad Gita tells us how we can keep the mind calm by having four qualities to our speech.

In speaking or using imagery, question yourself. Do your words have these qualities?

They should be:

Tranquil: Tranquil in tone and volume, without urgency or panic, having a soothing effect on others.

Truthful: True so the heart is not blocked by confusing contradictions. If it’s truthful you will say and mean the same thing.

Pleasant: The words uplift with an optimistic flow. You may even know some people who can say almost anything, even unpleasant things, and it is never taken as hurtful.

Beneficial: Allow the words to have some positive effect. This could be as simple as wishing someone “good morning.”

So filter your words to others and to yourself this way. Then your affirmations will have a dynamic, positive effect.

Namaste. ❤

❤ Article: The Power of Imagery

❤ Sojourn to Healing: How to understand and use affirmations & imagery. CD or Digital Download