I stumbled across this mantra this year -
Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu
I find mantra chanting very soothing and meditative. I particularly love the meaning of this one though...
May all beings everywhere be happy and free and may my thoughts, words and actions contribute in some way to that happiness and freedom for all.
It tickles me that such a succinct mantra needs so many words to translate the Sanskrit into English. Mostly though I love the sentiment. The idea that how I choose to think, speak and act reflects on everyone else's wellbeing is as exhilarating as it is terrifying.
I mean, how awesome that I am so powerful. But also eek!!! I am THAT powerful.
I have a quote on my wall which says
"Watch your thoughts, they create your words. Watch your words, they create your actions."
And so the start of it all is our thoughts.... How crazy is that? What we think can change the world for the better... Since I learnt this I have been exploring changing my habitual thought patterns.
As an example there was a long time when I would say "things will be better when..." The thought behind that was always dissatisfaction with where I was. I've realised that things improve much quicker when I look for the good things RIGHT NOW. Having a dedicated gratitude practice has helped me release that thought pattern. Life is good right now AND I can also believe that...
Every day in every way I am getting better and better.
I've really found affirmations useful for changing my thoughts. As I find thought patterns that are no longer serving me I research the belief I do want and find affirmations that support the way I do want to think. It has been a very useful process in changing the story I tell myself.
I recently drafted out a mini e course to help us change our thinking around body image. It is based on Louise Hay's affirmations around being overweight. I designed it to help us see our bodies in a more positive light. It includes a video with some tapping and some journalling. I will be launching it in January when I work out how best to host it! It is free so let me know if you are interested in playing along... 💝🌟🌻
One of the first affirmations to use if you want to change your thinking in any way is...
It is only a thought and a thought can be changed.
And that is our greatest power.
I want to acknowledge Louise Hay's incredible, inspiring work. Most of the affirmations I use are inspired by Louise's work.