Research reveals that many actions and beliefs are built on our subconscious perspectives, suggesting that we must rewire our subconscious to change our habits and thoughts. The subconscious mind is very active whilst the body is entering a state of sleep and throughout, making it the prime time to introduce affirmations that can reset your brain to increase self-belief and positivity.
Here, Martin Seeley at MattressNextDay presents the neurological science behind subconscious affirmations, the role of theta brain waves, and 5 affirmations to program your mind while you sleep.
Affirmations X Neuroscience
Affirmations are positive statements that work to drive self-belief. Once considered a ‘woo woo’, practice saved for celebrities, it’s now recognised that neuroscience underpins their effectiveness.
Research on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change its thought processes by forming new neural connections, proves that repeated positive statements influence thoughts and behaviour. The brain’s reticular activating system (RAS) filters the information that we focus on, ensuring that affirmations hold the potential to train the mind to place confidence and self-worth front of mind. In fact, self-affirmations have been shown to activate the brain’s ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is linked to self-processing and valuation. This suggests that affirmations influence how we perceive ourselves and what we are capable of.
Why Affirmations Make the Most Impact During Sleep
As we drift off to sleep, the brain transitions through different states, moving from beta (active thinking) to alpha (relaxed focus) and ultimately to theta (deep relaxation and subconscious receptivity). Theta waves (4-7 Hz) act as the gateway to the subconscious mind. Research on hypnosis and meditation indicates that theta waves enhance learning, memory, and emotional processing, making this state ideal for subconscious programming.
Studies show that theta brain wave activity boosts neuroplasticity, as the brain is receptive to creating new neural pathways. Consequently, 20 minutes before sleep is the most influential time to introduce affirmations, as the mind becomes highly impressionable and absorbs positive statements with ease.
How to Use Affirmations Before Sleep
To maximise the benefits of theta brain waves for boosting self-confidence, affirmations should be spoken, listened to, or mentally repeated just before falling asleep, and consistency is essential. As the affirmations are repeated nightly, the subconscious mind begins to accept them as truth, gradually influencing daily thoughts and actions.
Listening to recorded affirmations or speaking phrases to yourself in a calm, relaxed state can greatly enhance their effectiveness. Combining affirmations with visualization (imagine yourself projecting confidence)—activates the same neural circuits as actual experiences, reinforcing your chosen manifestation.
5 Affirmations to Boost Confidence and Self-belief
“I am confident in who I am and trust myself completely.”
Why it works: This affirmation reinforces self-acceptance and builds self-trust, which are key elements in developing confidence.
“Every day, I grow stronger, more capable, and more self-assured.”
Why it works: By framing growth as a daily process, this affirmation activates the brain’s dopamine system, enhancing motivation and resilience.
“My mind is programmed for success, and I believe in my abilities.
Why it works: Neuroscientific research shows that believing in one’s abilities strengthens the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and confidence.
I radiate self-assurance, and others see my inner strength.
Why it works: Social reinforcement is powerful. This affirmation encourages the brain to project confidence outward, positively influencing social interactions.
“I release all self-doubt and embrace my true potential”.
Why it works: Letting go of negative self-talk is essential for rewiring the subconscious. This affirmation promotes cognitive restructuring by replacing doubt with empowerment.”
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