#PositivelyStressed - Week 7
This week, let's dive into two powerful mindfulness techniques: #Mantras and #PositiveAffirmations. While both aim to ground us, they serve different purposes and have unique approaches to stress management.
I have a slightly different take on Mantras than most people. For me, they’re not just simple sayings, but semi-complicated phrases repeated in the lead-up to high stress events – like getting a flu shot. For example, reciting the digits of Pi (3.14…) distracts the mind, and redirecting it from the fight-or-flight response to the outside stimuli to a more neutral setting. Another great example comes from the sci-fi series "Dune", where we get the famous “Litany of Fear” mantra:
“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer… I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and though me. And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.”
Although, it goes without saying that Mantras should not be used when in the middle of stressful events - like public speaking - as it takes over the mind and you therefore can’t concentrate on what you are supposed to be doing. 😉
On the other hand, Positive Affirmations are simple, yet impactful statements that can be used first thing in the morning or can help reset our mindset after emotional challenges. Repeating affirmations about yourself can transform your “core beliefs” about yourself and thereby impact your actions and reactions to situations. For a family-friendly movie about “core beliefs” I’d recommend Pixar’s "Inside Out".
A powerful example comes from "The Help" when Viola Davis’s character takes the little girl and says, “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” These affirmations, though simple, can have a profound impact on self-worth of young people and young professionals. And their opposites – the negative affirmations – can equally be impactful.
Both of these techniques show the power that repetition has to distract and reshape our thoughts. Whether as interventions surrounding high stress events or as part of your daily routine, these are tools to support long-term mental health and resilience.
By: Stephen Delcuze, Esq. - Found on LinkedIn here.
