How “I AM” keeps me well!

 “The words 'I AM' are potent words; be careful what you hitch them to. The thing you’re claiming has a way of reaching back and claiming you.”       A.L. Kitselman

 In 2009, I was diagnosed with cervical spine stenosis, a condition that narrows the spinal canal in the neck, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Doctors recommended surgery. I wasn't ready, so I declined. In 2020, an MRI revealed that my condition had progressed from mild to severe. Still not comfortable with the idea of surgery, I went against doctors’ recommendations.

I decided that instead of obsessing over the diagnosis and its potential complications, I’d focus my energy on nurturing my body's natural ability to heal. So I did what I've done for almost three decades: I let the power of my pen guide me to a treatment plan - I added “I AM” affirmations to my journaling practice.

Affirmations enhance self-esteem, combat negative thoughts, and transform one's mindset. What makes them so effective is faith, consistency, and patience. And here's a surprising thing about them: even individuals who say they don’t believe in affirmations can experience a shift in mindset.

I incorporated affirmations into my journaling routine after losing my mother in 2004 and discovered they changed me on the inside. They transformed my thinking and shifted how I viewed myself and my mother’s death. Gratitude helped me focus on what I had left – Mom's good memories and precious gifts - and gradually, grief gave way to joy.

While affirmations are not intended to replace professional healthcare, they are an excellent self-help tool that complements other wellness practices and professional support. I’ve been with the same chiropractor since 2009, and four years ago, I added an acupuncturist to my wellness team. Thanks to their expert care and my journaling practice, which keeps me connected to divine inner wisdom, I am not just surviving—I AM thriving!

I AM grateful that when life throws me curveballs, affirmations help keep me in the game. They are unique in that they can be tailored to fit anyone and any situation, so here are five steps to creating affirmations:

1. Identify Your Focus Area. Focusing on your specific issue is important, so I created healing "I AM" affirmations explicitly tailored to my spine. I also infused them with gratitude by using words like “grateful,” “blessed,” or “thank you.” I like to express my appreciation in advance for the desired outcome: spinal healing. Examples: I AM grateful for my spine’s ability to heal itself; I AM creating space for healing between each vertebra.

2. Create present-tense statements that reflect the changes you desire. Affirmations can be written in various ways as long as they are positive and promote wellbeing. However, I AM” statements declare something as true in the present moment, rather than merely wishful thinking. Additionally, I keep my affirmations simple and specific, making them easier to remember and repeat. Example: I AM blessed with a strong spine; I AM grateful for my healing journey.

3. Be Consistent by choosing a time each day when you can give uninterrupted attention to your practice. I write affirmations in the morning as part of my daily journaling ritual, writing them down on paper and reading them aloud. Occasionally, depending on the need, I transfer one statement to a 3” x 5” index card and carry it with me in case I need a boost throughout the day.

4. Visualize the Outcome by imagining your life as you embody these affirmations. From a neuroscience standpoint, the dynamic process of neuroplasticity demonstrates that consistently using "I AM" statements creates new neural pathways that reinforce your desired outcomes.

I witnessed the astonishing results of neuroplasticity firsthand after my daughter Mia’s stroke. She noticed my index cards and asked what they were for. I explained. So after learning to read and write again, Mia wanted to try them to see if they would aid in her recovery. I wrote positive statements on cards and she diligently copied and taped them to her bed and bathroom mirror, reading them aloud daily. Within a few days, Mia shared how the practice had made her happier and eager to invest more effort into her rehabilitation journey.

5. Reflect on your feelings and experiences. My pen captures my progress in my journal, including the subtle shifts in my mindset and boosts in confidence as my body heals. Whatever thoughts and emotions rise to the surface, I pour them onto the page. And as a bonus, occasionally my pen works its magic by pointing me toward new healing agents to enhance my journey.   

When it comes to my diagnosis, here is one thing I know to be true: Cervical spine stenosis became a chapter in my life sixteen years ago, but it is not my book. Neither does it define me. I boldly move forward, declaring that I AM worthy of healing! I AM resilient! And I AM grateful to BE Well!

The words "I AM" are two of the most powerful words in the English language, therefore, be extremely cautious with what follows your “I AM” declarations. And when life catches you off guard or you're facing challenges that interfere with your wellbeing, do as I did, allow the power of your pen and the spirit of gratitude to create affirmations that pertain to your particular situation.

Be grateful, Be Well!

If you need help creating affirmations, contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com.  For more small change tips on how to Be Well, subscribe to my blog at https://www.myrtlerussell.com/contact