Valentine’s Day often shines a spotlight on love and connection, but what about the relationship we have with ourselves? For many, self-acceptance can be a struggle. The idea of standing in front of a mirror and reciting affirmations might feel awkward, cheesy, or something straight out of an American self-help book. But while it might not come naturally, there’s growing evidence that positive affirmations can genuinely benefit our mental and emotional well-being.
Why Affirmations Work
Affirmations are positive statements designed to challenge negative thoughts and build self-confidence. When repeated regularly, they can help shift our mindset, boost self-esteem, and even reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that using affirmations can activate brain regions associated with self-processing and reward, making us more resilient to criticism and negative self-perception (CPD Online).
Affirmations in EFT and Hypnotherapy
In Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), affirmations are combined with tapping on specific meridian points on the body to reduce emotional distress. This technique helps release negative emotions and reinforces positive beliefs, making it particularly useful for managing anxiety and self-doubt (Hypnotherapy Directory).
Hypnotherapy also utilises affirmations to help reprogram the subconscious mind. By reinforcing positive messages in a relaxed state, hypnotherapy can help replace deep-seated negative thought patterns with more empowering beliefs (Positively Calm).
How to Use Affirmations
If you’re new to affirmations, start small. Pick one or two statements that resonate with you and repeat them daily, ideally in front of a mirror or as part of a morning or bedtime routine.
Here are some affirmations to try:
I am worthy of love and kindness.
I accept myself exactly as I am.
I deserve happiness and fulfilment.
I choose to speak to myself with compassion.
My past does not define me; I create my future.
Making Affirmations Work for You
To get the most out of affirmations:
Say them out loud – Speaking affirmations with confidence reinforces them in your mind.
Use the present tense – Affirming something as already true helps shift your mindset.
Pair them with action – Reinforce your affirmations by taking small, positive steps towards self-care.
Be patient – Changing your mindset takes time, so be consistent and gentle with yourself.
While affirmations may feel unnatural at first, they can become a powerful tool in cultivating self-acceptance and confidence. This Valentine’s Day, instead of just focusing on external relationships, take a moment to invest in your relationship with yourself. It might feel a little odd at first, but with time, you may find yourself believing the words you say.
Why not give it a go? Stand in front of the mirror, take a deep breath, and say, “I am enough.” Because you truly are.
Malcolm Struthers Hypnotherapy - Sessions available online or in-person (at The Crichton in Dumfries) - get in touch for more details.
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