Take a minute, close your eyes, and say it with us: “My hair is beautiful.” Feel a little better? We thought so. Your hair is stunning, of course, but giving it—and yourself—a few compliments or positive words throughout the day wouldn’t hurt, especially if you find your brain (understandably) leaning more towards the negative these days.

Studies have shown that regular positive affirmations form neurological pathways that become stronger and easier to navigate the more they’re practiced. Giving ourselves kind words of encouragement, reminding ourselves of positive beliefs, and writing out a few things we’re grateful for can improve our moods, increase our self-worth, and make us happier over time. According to Harvard Business Review, engaging in just one positive exercise every day for three weeks can have long-term benefits like greater happiness and productivity. 

According to The Chopra Center, affirmations work best when they are clear and direct, often begin with the words “I am,” and are stated in the present tense. (Think “I am strong” versus “I will be strong when…”) They also recommend what they call Affirmation Override, a practice of correcting negative thinking by following negative self-talk with something positive to reset. 

This year has shown us just how important routines and rituals can be, but we often neglect the internal practices that can have the greatest impact of all. When you're ready, find a quiet spot, think of a few affirmations that apply to you in this moment, and repeat them with mindfulness, gentleness, and kindness for your body and mind. 

𝘎𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘷𝘦-𝘑𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘑𝘢𝘤𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘵 ‘𝘜𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘵, 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭’ (1886)

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