5 Empowering Mantras That Will Help Shift Your Mindset
One lesson that I've learned over the years is that more important than how you talk to others, is the way you talk to yourself.
I am guilty of being one of those people whose compassion makes leaps and bounds for others, so much so that when it is my turn to receive love--to be told good things and to play the “treat yo' self" role--the tank is often on E. As a woman I think we all collectively say that we've been there and done that. Work gets attention friends get attention,children – multitasking is a skill like no other, yet we often leave ourselves with the crumbs while everyone else gets a full meal.
Self-love is not about being selfish, it is about going inward and putting in the work so that you are able to give the love that you have found and cultivated within yourself to others.
Let's say you don't have the energy to exercise a few times a week, do yoga, or write an entry in your journal before you lay your head to sleep – how do you make time for yourself if the classic self care practices are not readily accessible for you? One way to assure that the self gets some sort of love through your day to day is by indulging in the practice of daily mantras, or affirmations.
I have five that have helped me shift my mindset during some of my most trying times.
I ask that while reciting these mantras, you look yourself in the eyes meaningfully in the mirror.
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"My thoughts and words create my reality."
A lot of times in life it feels like your world is out of your control. This may be true, however, a determining and detrimental factor are the thoughts you allow to invade your mind and the words you use to talk about yourself and your life. The more negative they are, the more negative your outlook on your external world. Like attracts like, thus positivity attracts positivity. It is important to train your thoughts and words to echo the kind of life you hope to lead. Your life will flourish if you let it flourish.
"I am worthy."
It is easy to internalize bad things that happen to you, bad things that people say to you, and bad things that people do to you and believe them to be true. It is easy to believe that you are deserving of what people outside of you present to you. Do not believe them. Believe you. You are worthy of peace, of love without condition, of happiness over contentment, of passion, of pleasure, of this life, of what you desire. You are worthy of it all. Your worth is limitless; do not ever sell yourself short of that.
"I am here."
Be happy with where you are in the present by acknowledging that you are here, alive, well, and for those reasons, the present state matters as well as yourself. By merely existing you matter, so being mindful of what your presence does for the world and those around you can help keep things in perspective. Focus on the here and don't think too far ahead. We often get into trouble when we allow worry and stress to pollute our minds and spirits. Instead of putting so much power into what could happen, focus on what is. The key to happiness is not allowing the bullshit to bother you--let go and let God. Realize that we you are right now as you breathe this mantra into existence is where you belong.
"I am enough."
So often feelings of insecurity or unworthiness stem from experiences of unworthiness. I didn't get the job because I wasn't good enough. I don't have a man because I'm not good enough. I didn't make the grade because I'm not good enough. Self loathing can become commonplace with the thoughts we allow to enter our psyche. We don't even notice how much power we have over what we say about ourselves to ourselves. “I am enough" is a start to eliminating feelings of self doubt and increasing feelings of self confidence in oneself and capabilities. You are enough, a “no," or a closed door doesn't change just how enough you are. Never forget that.
"Life is beautiful."
It is easy to take life for granted, especially when dark days trump the light ones or the downs outweigh the ups, but it is important to note that throughout its complications and lows, life is a beautiful, magnificent, immaculate existence, and by extension, so are you. Look at life. Look at God and rejoice in the beauty of all that you have instead of all that you do not. See the good and keep your line of thinking there aligned with gratitude.
What are some mantras or affirmations you repeat to yourself daily? Share with me below!
Featured image by Getty Images
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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If you’re like many other people who are prioritizing wellness these days, then attending a wellness retreat might be something to consider. Wellness retreats are a cool way to get the relaxation you’ve been missing in a space with like-minded people who share a common goal. I descended upon my first wellness retreat, the Mind, Body, + Sol Retreat, a couple of weeks ago at the Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Zoëtry Agua is part of the Inclusive Collection for the World of Hyatt. It is nestled on a secluded part of Uvero Alto beach, which has crystal blue waters. The resort itself is picturesque, with its thatched roofs and lazy rivers that make you feel like you’re in a cute little village.
Mindy, Body, + Sol Retreat was hosted by Koya Webb, holistic health and wellness coach and yoga instructor, and it also featured other wellness practitioners who combined provided the ultimate gift of relaxation and getting back to oneself.
The first night was a Welcome Dinner that featured a five-course meal and an opportunity to meet our companions for the next three days. The food was impeccable and the only downside was that I wasn’t able to finish it all. The next day, however, was the official start of the classes, and I was ready to dive in.
Aura and Chakra Reading
Aura and chakra reading
Photo courtesy
My first class was an aura and chakra reading led by Laura McCann and James Levinson, an Asheville, NC couple. I’ve had chakra readings before, but never like this. There was a computer, a camera, and a scanner, which I placed my hand on for the reading. After two minutes, I received a 15-page report explaining my aura and chakra reading.
It breaks down what the colors of your aura are and what your chakras say. My main colors were green and yellow, which were defined by a variety of things. The top of my aura was green, meaning I have a social mental state and I’m a natural healer. My aura on my left side was yellow meaning my energy flowing is optimistic and light and so on.
After James discussed the findings with me, I then met with Laura, who gave me aromatherapy oils from their ADORAtherapy line that represented each chakra. She further explained the results of my chakra reading and shared how each oil can assist. Chakras are the energy centers in our body, and there is a total of seven: root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye, and crown. All of my chakras were high except for my heart chakra, which I have since been working on. I may follow up about that in another article.
Sound Bath
Sound bath class
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Next was the sound bath class. It was located in the spa, which was indoor/ outdoor and the perfect setting for this kind of experience. Andrew Francis and Carrie Bailey of Zenden Meditation were the co-pilots in transporting attendees into a place of tranquility. I laid down, closed my eyes, and allowed the sounds around me to bring me into a relaxing state. From the singing bowls to the wind chimes, I was in heaven. I even fell asleep and got some of the best rest I’ve had in a while. It was a beautiful experience. However, remember when I noted it was an indoor/ outdoor venue? I forgot to put on bug spray and woke up pretty itchy. But it didn’t stop me from enjoying the moment.
Tea Party
Art of Tea Ritual Tea Party
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The last event of the day was the Art of Tea Ritual located in the resort’s tea garden. It was everything you could want in a tea party. Delectable treats such as cookies, cakes, and white chocolate-covered strawberries, which are my fave. And, of course, tea. While I got to sip tea, I also got to make my own tea blend. There were many different teas to choose from, like hibiscus to your regular black tea. I decided to mix rose and mint and I called it RoseMint. I didn’t get to try my tea blend until I got home, and I’ll be honest, it’s probably the best tea I ever had. The tea herbs taste so fresh, and I love how fragrant it smells.
Breathwork
Breathwork Class
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The next morning was all about breathwork. If you exercise regularly, then you probably know the importance of breathing. But there’s more to it besides remembering to breathe during your workout. Margaret Townsend is a breathwork facilitator who helps people achieve wellness by consciously changing their breathing patterns. In her class, I learned to change my breathing pattern for energy as well as for relaxation. While I know that breathing is a relaxation tool, I was blown away to learn that it can also energize you. Because it was a different breathing pattern, I was also able to stay present and keep a steady pace.
Yoga
Koya Webb's yoga class
Photo courtesy
The final class of the retreat was evening yoga with Koya Webb, who, as I mentioned earlier, was the host. Her class was held beside the beautiful Uvero Alto beach, which made for a stunning backdrop and the perfect way to end the retreat. It was important for me to get back into my body after not doing yoga for a few weeks, so I was really focused on nailing the moves. However, Koya kept the energy light and fun, evening cracking a few jokes throughout, which made it easy for me to relax and enjoy the moment. She ended the class with a dance break and hugs from our classmates.
The Mind, Body, + Sol Retreat reminded me how important it is to take time to love on myself. Each class was an opportunity to be present and get reacquainted with oneself in the most loving way. Being surrounded by individuals who encouraged my journey was what I needed, and I am so honored to have had this experience.
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