A friend who is working late this evening shared over this message from her tea; I found it to be a perfectly timed reminder for me.
I have been focusing on a few phrases to get me through the times when I am not in the mindset that I want to be; where I might not feel as energetic, calm, composed, level-headed or open-minded as I am striving, in my more intentional moments, to be.
If you had suggested taking up a mantra practice to me a few years ago I would have likely laughed, and certainly would not have taken you seriously. I used to associate mantras with meditation, and although I enjoy listening to the Headspace and Calm apps once in awhile, I haven’t yet been able to get on any sort of meditating level.
I was introduced to a different form of mantra and affirmation practice through Cara Alwill Leyba (author, life-coach, blogger, podcaster); in this powerful post, she explains how she uses mantras and affirmations. I was inspired to create my own variation of her practice after reading.
Rather than dwelling on challenge, on stress, on lack, on guilt, on weakness, on the negative, certain phrases have helped me get to a better mental place, not just in the moment but overall, with almost any situation I find myself in. They make me more aware, and remind me to be intentional. As Cara mentions in her blog, it helps to remove the power and energy from whatever thing or person that is driving imbalance and gives it back to you. The phrases that I try to use daily are:
“I am not available for struggle.”
“What is meant for me will not pass me by.”
“When I take care of myself, everyone around me benefits.”
“The way that I speak to my children will become their inner voice.”
Tonight, I’m adding that message I received by way of my friend’s teacup to my list, this one specifically for when I need a more positive direction in where my conversations are going.
Do you have an affirmation or mantra practice? I’d love to add a few more to my arsenal.
P.S. An easy way to find Cara’s mantras and affirmations is on Instagram; she’s @thechampagnediet if you’re interested.
Finding Me in Mom 