The concept of mind over matter has been around for centuries, but science is starting to prove just how effective it can be.

Having reached the bottom of the bottom, suffering a complete mental breakdown nearly 7 years ago, I used to think that my mind was my worst enemy. Imagine feeling like you had to fight with yourself every day just to make getting out of bed worth the effort - not the most pleasant lifestyle.

Though I have gone through professional counseling and am currently on one medication for both depression and social anxiety, I’ve found that telling my mind what to think (instead of letting it take control and lead me life) has been the most vital tool for my happiness and sanity.

I was introduced to the idea of meditation and body awareness through my study of Buddhism, which lead to a passion for yoga. Just a decade ago, I wouldn’t even have dreamed of trying to smile. Now, my mantra is, “there’s a positive side to everything.”

Speaking of meditation, the core of guided mediation, a very common style that is perfect for beginners, is focusing on one particular word or phrase to help release your mind and body of surrounding tension. Your chosen positive phrase is often called an affirmation, and science is proving that a few happy words can change your entire outlook (and I’m part of the proof).

Reading the I Can Stay Calm article by M.J. Ryan in the January 2009 issue of Good Housekeeping Magazine was a fantastic confirmation that my often-seen-as-superstitious view of life is actually what saved my life. “At it’s simplest form, an affirmation is a strong positive statement about something you really want … It’s important to realize that an affirmation is not a magic formula, but, used correctly, it can be an effective tool to transform your life,” says Ryan.

The piece goes on to share recent studies that have proven the power of positive words, along with the easiest ways to integrate affirmations into your life without feeling silly. “These studies show that our brains create our experience of reality based, at least in part, on our expectations … Apparently the brain doesn’t differentiate between pretending to do something and actually doing it – if you imagine it clearly and strongly enough. So as you focus on your affirmation, try to see and feel it actually happening.”

Anyone who tells me that my outlook is naive or delusional are simply misinformed or downright jaded. The idea of mind over matter has never been more true than it is today, especially when we are bombarded by negative news and images every minute of every day. Be different – be positive.

[Image courtesy of honey-bee on flickr.com]