Five ways to kick-start your positive affirmations

Look in the mirror. “Mirror work is very powerful,” says Hay, who adds that, as children, we received most negative messages from people looking us straight in the eye. Many of us criticise ourselves in the mirror.” To look at yourself and make a positive declaration is, in my opinion, the quickest way to get results with affirmations.”

Repetition. The mind is programmed by repetition. To change your thinking, you need to repeat positive thoughts. Hay recommends doing it 300 times a day. If that seems too much, think about how often you worry — you probably go over your problems more often than that.

Give yourself approval. An affirmation Hay recommends you start using right now is: ‘I approve of myself’. Repeat this constantly for the next month and always in the present tense “or it will stay out in the future,” she says.

Think highly of yourself. Self-esteem is the way you evaluate and see yourself and you can think whatever you want! “Why would you want to belittle yourself?” asks Hay.

Do things that feel good. To be happy, Hay suggests you think happy thoughts, do things that make you feel good and surround yourself with genial people.

For more health tips and advice pick up the May issue of Good Health magazine or subscribe at magshop.co.nz.