Your Body’s Potential: The Science of Affirmations for Structural ChangeIn this episode, we explore the body's alignment and function, highlighting the role of the subconscious mind in driving these changes. Learn how affirmations can reprogram your subconscious and foster lasting improvements in posture, breath, and behavior. From understanding the neuroscience behind affirmations to practical steps for integrating them into your daily routine, this video offers a comprehensive guide to using affirmations for structural and emotional transformation.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:48 The Subconscious and Behavior Change01:44 The Power of Affirmations03:32 Scientific Insights on Affirmations07:06 Practical Application of Affirmations07:47 Steps to Implement Affirmations09:09 Conclusion and Next StepsThinkUp App: https://thinkup.me/Research & Resources for This Episode:This episode is grounded in research on how affirmations, repetition, and subconscious states can influence the brain and body. Here is a summary of the key findings discussed and a list of the papers to learn more.Key Research Findings:*Brain & Behavior: Affirmations are shown to activate the brain's reward centers (ventral striatum), helping to reduce stress and prime the nervous system for new habits and lasting behavior change.*The Theta State: Listening to affirmations in a relaxed, receptive state (like before sleep) may be effective because this is when your brain produces theta waves, a brain wave state crucial for unconscious learning and the formation of new neural pathways.*Mental & Emotional Health: Studies show that consistent use of affirmations can reduce anxiety and depression, while also increasing overall psychological resilience and emotional well-being.*Physical & Functional Benefits:Affirmations can help buffer the body’s stress response, lowering cortisol levels. In some contexts, they are shown to improve cardiovascular flexibility and support better health behaviors, like diet and exercise.*A Cross-Cultural Practice: The core principles of repetition and rhythm are found in ancient practices like mantras and prayers, demonstrating a long history of their effectiveness in promoting calm, healing, and personal transformation.Full Research List:Mental Health & Well-Being: * Łakuta, P. (2021). *Brief self-affirmation intervention for adults with psoriasis... * Yıldırım, M., et al. (2023). *The effect of self-affirmation on anxiety and perceived discomfort... * Seto, S., et al. (2023). *Effects of Self-Affirmation on Mental Status During... * Howell, A. (2017). *Self-Affirmation Theory and the Science of Well-Being. * Yan, W., et al. (2023). *Effects of a self-affirmation intervention among Chinese adolescents…Brain Waves & Learning: * Lomas, T., et al. (2015). A systematic review of the neurophysiology of mindfulness on EEG oscillations. * Tang, Y., et al. (2019). Frontal theta activity and white matter plasticity... * Korotkova, T., et al. (2018). Reconciling the different faces of hippocampal theta... * Spaak, E., & De Lange, F. (2019). Hippocampal and Prefrontal Theta-Band Mechanisms...Cross-Cultural Practices: * Luskin, F. (2004). *Transformative practices for integrating mind-body-spirit.* * Bernardi, L., et al. (2001). *Effect of rosary prayer and yoga mantras on autonomic cardiovascular rhythms...Physical Health & Behavior Change: * Creswell, J., et al. (2005). *Affirmation of Personal Values Buffers Neuroendocrine and Psychological Stress Responses. * Epton, T., et al. (2015). *The impact of self-affirmation on health-behavior change: a meta-analysis. * Puckett, J., et al. (2024). *Legal Gender Affirmation, Psychological Distress, and Physical Health Issues... * You, D., et al. (2023). *Spontaneous self-affirmation: an adaptive coping strategy for people with chronic pain.