Stress can feel like an unstoppable force, impacting both our mental and physical well-being. It can grip our minds and bodies with negative thoughts and anxiety. But what if there was a simple, everyday tool to help us reduce stress and manage those anxious thoughts? I'm not going to lie, it will take time–The bullshit in our minds doesn't just leave over night. It took us years to build what's there and now we're trying to get rid of it quicker then it took to build it.

In Enter affirmations: simple yet powerful positive phrases that can transform our mindset. More than just wishful thinking, affirmations can help us:

- Reprogram our minds

- Boost our mental well-being

- Manage stress

- Enhance our meditation practice

Here are the top 10 positive affirmations for stress relief:

The purpose of positive affirmations is to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Through self-affirmations, we cultivate self-empowerment and self-care. Over time, your anxious thoughts will diminish, and you'll discover a newfound sense of inner peace. Remember, this transformation won't happen overnight! Be gentle and compassionate with yourself as you embark on your positive affirmation journey.

1. “I’m doing my best, and that’s more than enough.”

This affirmation reminds us that perfection isn't the goal. By acknowledging our efforts, we reduce self-imposed stress and foster self-compassion. It encourages us to be kind to ourselves, understanding that doing our best is always sufficient. Junius, a meditation teacher, emphasizes, "Being kind to yourself with self-affirmations like this helps to reduce stress and motivate you, supercharging you with belief in your ability to succeed."

2. “This feeling/emotion/situation is temporary, and I will get through it.”

Recognizing the temporary nature of stress helps us manage it better. This affirmation provides perspective, reminding us that tough times are not permanent, which helps us reset our mental state. It also helps us radiate confidence, reminding us that we have the resilience to overcome. Junius notes, "An affirmation like this can help bring perspective and distance yourself from stress, reinforcing that you will get through it."

3. “I am calm, capable, and centered.”

Affirming our inner strength and calmness helps to stabilize our emotions. It reinforces our ability to handle stress effectively, promoting a sense of balance and control in stressful situations. Junius finds this affirmation particularly grounding, stating, "It’s a powerful way to remind yourself of your inner strength and calmness."

4. “I choose to focus on what I can control.”

Stress often stems from worrying about things beyond our control. This affirmation shifts our focus to what we can influence, empowering us to take constructive action and release tension and unnecessary stress. According to Junius, "Affirmations like this help to create a more resilient mindset by focusing on what’s within your control."

5. “I am in control of how I respond to others.”

Our reactions to external stressors can amplify our stress levels. This affirmation emphasizes our power over disruptive thoughts and our responses, encouraging measured reactions that reduce overall stress. Junius explains, "By affirming your control over your responses, you reduce the overall impact of stress from external sources."

6. “I let go of what I cannot change.”

Holding onto past mistakes and things we cannot change only adds to our stress. This affirmation helps us practice acceptance, releasing the burden of unchangeable circumstances and finding peace in the present moment. Junius advises, "Letting go of unchangeable circumstances through affirmations can help find peace and reduce stress."

7. “I am worthy of love, peace, and joy.”

Feeling unworthy is never a good feeling, especially when we are stressed or anxious. This affirmation boosts self-worth and reinforces our right to happiness and positive emotional health, helping us release fear and stress. Junius highlights the importance of this self-affirmation, saying, "It boosts self-esteem and reinforces your right to positive emotions, creating a stress-free mindset."

8. “I am surrounded by support and love.”

Acknowledging the support system around us can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. This affirmation helps us feel connected and supported, mitigating stress and managing anxiety through the strength of our relationships. Junius emphasizes, "Recognizing your support system can provide comfort and reduce stress by feeling connected."

9. “I trust the process of life.”

Trusting in the natural flow of life can alleviate stress caused by uncertainty. This affirmation fosters a sense of faith and confidence that everything will work out as it should, reducing anxiety about the future. Junius shares, "Trusting the process of life through affirmations can alleviate stress and foster confidence in the future."

10. “I breathe in calm and breathe out stress.”

Using breath as a tool for stress relief is highly effective. This affirmation combines deep breathing with positive reinforcement. As you repeat this phrase, imagine that you are inhaling calmness and exhaling stress, creating a cycle of tranquility and relaxation.