Affirmation, Mantra, Intention, Sankalpa

These are four different words, with essentially the same idea.

Affirmation is the action or process of affirming something or being affirmed
A Mantra is a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation
An intention is defined as a purpose, something for which effort is being made.
Sankalpa is an intention formed by the heart and mind.

Often at the beginning of yoga class I ask the students to set an intention. While they are setting their intention, I am as well.

What is the purpose of this day, this class, this moment?

A few months back, I decided to set an intention each day, and use this intention in my meditation. They were simple, grateful and prayerful. Last week I had a reader comment on my musings and we chatted about affirmations and intentions, and I loved the affirmations she shared with me.
I'll share a few of each of these with you and maybe they can help you get started with your own affirmations, mantras, intentions or sankalpa.

Whatever you call them, know they can be powerful.

"I am becoming my own healer, I am responsible for my health, I can have true healing from within",
"I will be patient, I know that true healing takes time, knowledge and daily action,"
"I will never give up, I will persevere until I heal, learning, improving and growing as I go."

May I be safe
May I find peace
May I feel grace
May I breathe with ease
May I be thoughtful in my words
I am full of joy
I am creative

Take some time this week to write down a positive affirmation that feels right for you, and like my friend, place it on your bathroom mirror or your computer. Give yourself a moment to stop, breathe and repeat your intention to help you throughout your day.

May you find ease and calm as you begin your new week.