In this blog we will explore all the elements that are used within Affirmate. We will unfurl their rich history, exploring their diverse roots, from ancient spiritual traditions to modern-day mindfulness practices.
More than just a melodious backdrop, these elements bear a multitude of benefits that impact your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
As we embark on this harmonious exploration, let us celebrate the convergence of tradition and innovation, recognizing that within the confines of our mobile app, a symphony of wisdom plays on, guiding us towards a harmonious balance between technology and the soul. Join us on this transformative journey as we unlock the secrets of these enchanting elements.
Affirmation
An affirmation is a positive statement that is intended to inspire, encourage, and motivate individuals to cultivate positive thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Affirmations can be used to help individuals reprogram their subconscious mind and create positive changes in their lives.
The use of positive affirmations is based on several psychological principles, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and self-affirmation theory.
CBT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative or unhelpful thought patterns. Positive affirmations are often used as part of CBT to help individuals replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
Self-affirmation theory supports the use of positive affirmations. This theory suggests that individuals have a basic need to maintain a positive self-image and that affirming positive qualities about themselves can help them to do so.
A study published in the journal “Psychological Science” found that self-affirmation can reduce the effects of stereotype threat on performance in academic settings.
Another study published in the journal “Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience” found that self-affirmation can activate areas of the brain associated with reward processing and positive emotions.
Affirmations can take many different forms, including written statements, spoken words, forms of music or a combination of part or all of them. They are typically short, concise, and focused on a specific area of life that we wish to improve, such as self-confidence, self-esteem, success, health, or happiness.
By changing our thoughts, we can create positive changes in our lives.
By repeating or listening to affirmations regularly, we can help to reprogram our subconscious mind and create positive changes in our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
With Affirmate, you have access to a diverse range of affirmations that have been specifically crafted to help you cultivate a more balanced life, both mentally and emotionally.
Mantra
A mantra is a word, phrase, or sound that is repeated as a focus for meditation or concentration. It has been used in various forms for thousands of years across different cultures and religions as a tool for mindfulness and heartfulness.
Mantras have a rich and diverse history in spirituality and religion across the world. Originating in ancient civilizations, these sacred utterances have played a central role in various belief systems. In Hinduism, mantras were introduced in the Vedas as powerful hymns for invoking deities and expressing cosmic truths. Buddhism adopted mantras as a key part of meditation practices, with the most renowned being “Om Mani Padme Hum.” In Judaism, the recitation of Psalms serves as a form of spiritual connection. Islamic Sufis use “dhikr” as a repetitive mantra to attain closeness to the divine. Similarly, in Christian traditions, repetitive prayers like the “Hail Mary” are used for devotion. Throughout history, mantras have been regarded as potent tools for spiritual growth, mindfulness, and establishing a profound connection with the divine in diverse cultural and religious contexts.
The act of repeating and hearing a mantra has a profound effect on the mind and body. When a mantra is repeated, it creates a vibration that resonates through the body.
Research has shown that the repetition of a mantra can also have a positive effect on cognitive function, including improved attention, memory, and concentration. By focusing on the repetition of the mantra, the mind is able to enter a state of deep relaxation and concentration, allowing for greater clarity and insight.
These are the mantras used in Affirmate:
Om – Sacred sound
Vam – Balances emotions and creativity
Lam – Promotes grounding and physical health
Ham – Promotes clear communication
Yam – Promotes emotional balance and compassion
Ram – Promotes personal power
Affirmate provides a unique experience by offering specially chosen mantras to accompany each affirmation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the power of positive self-talk and create a more uplifting mindset.
Tibetan Bowls
Bowls are a type of percussion instrument that produce a deep, resonant sound when struck or played with a mallet. Typically, they are made from metal, but they can also be made from other materials such as crystal, glass, or ceramic. Bowls come in various sizes and shapes, ranging from small handheld ones to large, heavy bowls that require a stand.
Bowls have been used for many purposes throughout history, including music, meditation, and healing. In music, bowls are often used to create a peaceful, calming atmosphere, while in meditation, they can help to quiet the mind and promote a sense of inner stillness.
The use of bowls in healing and therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years, because the vibrations produced by the instrument can have a range of beneficial effects on the mind, body, and spirit. Some of the reported benefits of bowl therapy include stress reduction, improved sleep, pain relief, and enhanced creativity.
The history of bowls can be traced back to ancient cultures in Asia, where they were used for both religious and secular purposes. In Tibet, bowls were used in Buddhist ceremonies to accompany chanting and meditation. Over time, the use of bowls spread to other parts of the world, and they became popular among practitioners of alternative healing modalities such as sound therapy and energy healing.
In many cultures, bowls are considered sacred instruments with powerful healing properties. Some believe that the vibrations produced by the bowls can help to balance and harmonize the body’s energy centers, while others see them as tools for connecting with higher states of consciousness.
Affirmate utilizes a variety of specifically selected and expertly tuned bowls for each affirmation. This creates a harmonious and immersive experience, allowing the vibrations of the bowls to enhance the positive effects of the affirmation and promote a deeper sense of relaxation and well-being.
Japa
Japa is a practice that involves the repetition of an affirmation or mantra.
Ancient Eastern traditions recommend reciting an affirmation or mantra a specific number of times, most commonly 108, which is considered a sacred number in many cultures. However, the most important factor in integrating an affirmation or mantra into one’s life is consistency and regular practice. Repetition of an affirmation or mantra on a daily basis, whether it is a few times or hundreds of times, can help to reinforce the message and create a positive habit or mindset.
It is scientifically known that the body is made up of vibrations, and that sounds can influence these vibrations. Whenever you affirmate, we play your chosen affirmation 108 times in 60 seconds in order to increase the frequency of the vibration. This has the potential to have a more profound effect on the body and its energy even if the vibration is merely silent to the human ears, but nevertheless played and thus absorbed in our space. This is because our body is able to process and absorb a higher frequency vibration more effectively through our skin, which is the most sensitive sensory organ that nature can offer and much more efficient than our ears.
There is a psychological principle known as “priming,” which suggests that repeating a certain phrase or affirmation can help manifest that reality in one’s life. By repeating or listening to an affirmation 108 times, the mind becomes more attuned to that reality, and the individual may begin to see positive changes and results in their life that align with the affirmation.
Solfeggio Frequency
The Solfeggio Frequencies are a set of ancient musical tones that are considered to have healing properties for the body and mind.
Solfeggio Frequencies are believed to have been used in ancient Gregorian chants, where each note of the scale was assigned a specific syllable. In the early 20th century, Dr. Joseph Puleo rediscovered the Solfeggio Frequencies and began studying their potential therapeutic effects.
A study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies in 2018 investigated the effects of Solfeggio Frequencies on heart rate variability (HRV), which is an indicator of the body’s autonomic nervous system and stress response. The study found that exposure to Solfeggio Frequencies for 20 minutes resulted in a significant increase in HRV, suggesting that the frequencies may have a calming and balancing effect on the body’s stress response.
Another study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine in 2017 examined the effects of Solfeggio Frequencies on pain perception in patients undergoing dental procedures. The study found that patients who listened to Solfeggio Frequencies during their dental procedures reported lower levels of pain and anxiety compared to patients who did not listen to the frequencies.
Another study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2018 found that listening to 528 Hz frequency music led to a significant reduction in cortisol levels (a hormone associated with stress) and an increase in immunoglobulin A (an antibody associated with immune function) compared to a control group.
Every time you affirmate, the best suited Solfeggio Frequency for your chosen affirmation will be played throughout the process.
These are the Solfeggio Frequencies used in Affirmate:
174 Hz – Relieving Pain and Stress
285 Hz – Healing Tissue and Organs
528 Hz – Transformation and Miracles
639 Hz – Connecting Relationships
852 Hz – Returning to Spiritual Order
963 Hz – Divine Consciousness or Enlightenment
Crystals
Natural crystals have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years. Many cultures believe that crystals have energetic and vibrational properties that can help to balance and harmonize the energy of a space. Crystals amplify and enhance sound vibrations, resulting in a richer and more dynamic sonic experience.
Crystals have a captivating history intertwined with spirituality and religion across diverse cultures worldwide. Dating back thousands of years, ancient civilizations revered crystals for their perceived mystical properties. In ancient Egypt, crystals like quartz were used for healing and protection, and they were placed in tombs as spiritual conduits. In Native American traditions, crystals were considered sacred gifts from the Earth and were used in ceremonies and rituals to connect with the spirit world. Crystals also held significance in Asian cultures, particularly in Chinese and Japanese spiritual practices, where jade and quartz were esteemed for their spiritual properties. Moreover, crystals have been associated with various religious beliefs, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and divine energy in Hinduism, Buddhism, and even Christianity. Over time, the use of crystals in spirituality and religion has continued to evolve, becoming an enduring symbol of spiritual connection and holistic well-being across the globe.
Affirmate’s musical components are recorded in a sound healing room. This room includes a layout of specific crystals used to enhance and capture the most pure form of vibrations and frequencies within the space. We recorded these sounds in order to share the benefits of the space with those who cannot experience it in person.
Gong
The gong is a large percussion instrument that has been used for centuries in many cultures around the world for various purposes and is considered a sacred instrument with spiritual properties. Typically, a gong is a flat circular metal disc, with a raised center and a turned-down rim. It can range in size from a few inches to several feet in diameter and is usually played with a mallet or a soft padded stick.
These metal instruments embrace profound significance in various spiritual practices. In ancient Southeast Asia, gongs took center stage during rituals, embodying cosmic forces and manifesting divine communication. From the temples of China to ceremonial gatherings in Africa’s indigenous tribes, gongs lovingly invoked deities, marking moments of spiritual intention and inducing meditative states. Revered for their penetrating vibrations, they were believed to cleanse energies, heal, and elevate consciousness. As time passed, gongs gracefully wove themselves into the spiritual fabric of many traditions, finding sanctuary in Buddhism’s meditation and prayer ceremonies. Today, these sacred instruments continue to be cherished for their powerful resonance, transcending borders to resonate with the human soul, eternally symbolizing sacred sound and fostering a divine connection.
Divya
In ancient Ukraine, a musical instrument named “Divya” graced folklore times, captivating hearts with its ethereal melodies. Comprising numerous harmonical metal hollow tubes intricately connected by two strings, the Divya held the secrets of sonic transcendence.
The Divya is played by moving a mallet up or down and turning it 180-360 degrees to let air play inside the hollow tubes and create magnificent spiritual vibrations.
Within the sacred domain of sound healing, sound baths, and spiritual and religious rituals, the Divya found its sacred purpose. Embracing the essence of intention and healing, its celestial tones facilitated profound connections with the natural world, fostering an intimate bond between humankind and the cosmic tapestry. As souls embraced the enchanting melodies, they bloomed like blossoming flowers, sprouting towards higher planes of consciousness, and found solace in the soothing embrace of the Divya’s transcendental resonance.
Strumok
The Strumok, a contemporary musical marvel, offers a unique way to achieve relaxation and find tranquility through its ingenious simulation of a stream’s gentle murmur. As one delicately shakes the instrument, tiny metal balls nestled within strike against its sides, producing a harmonious flow akin to the soothing rush of water. This auditory experience has proven to be a powerful tool for meditation, creating a serene environment that aids in calming the mind and finding inner peace.
When used during meditation practices, the cascading melody can effectively alleviate heavy feelings, allowing individuals to unwind and disconnect from the demands of daily existence. The Strumok’s ethereal harmonies facilitate improved focus and concentration, enabling practitioners to delve deeper into their inner selves and attain heightened mindfulness.
Beyond its immediate meditative properties, this harmonious instrument has the power to uplift spirits and enhance emotional well-being, as its melody gracefully weaves a tapestry of tranquility around its listeners. In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, the Strumok offers a serene oasis where individuals can find solace and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.
Tibetan Bell
The Tibetan bell, also known as the Tibetan singing bell or the Rin gong, is a type of bell commonly used in Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies, meditation practices, and sound healing therapies. The bell has a unique shape, with a broad base and a narrow top, and is made from a combination of metals such as copper, silver, and gold.
The Tibetan bell is used in a similar way to Tingsha cymbals, to clear negative energy from a space. However, the sound of the Tibetan bell is deeper and more resonant than that of the Tingsha, and it produces a sustained tone that can last for several minutes.
In sound healing therapies, the vibrations produced by the Tibetan bell have a range of healing benefits. The deep, resonant sound of the bell is said to penetrate the body and promote relaxation, calmness, and a sense of inner stillness.
Wind Chimes
Wind chimes are musical instruments consisting of a series of metal or wooden tubes, rods, or bells suspended from a central frame. They are typically hung outside or in open spaces where they can catch the wind and produce a gentle, soothing sound.
The history of wind chimes weaves a captivating tale of spirituality and religious significance across the globe. Tracing back centuries, wind chimes first emerged in ancient China and later found their way into various cultures and traditions.
Initially crafted with bamboo, wind chimes were believed to bring good luck. As these melodious instruments spread to Japan, they became a symbol of purity and were used in Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies. In the West, wind chimes became a cherished element in garden decor and were associated with positive energy and spiritual harmony.
Revered for their soothing melodies and celestial resonance, wind chimes hold a timeless place in the hearts of people, serving as a gentle reminder of the interconnectedness between nature and the divine.
Koshi
The Koshi is a type of musical instrument that belongs to the family of metallophones. It is a contemporary instrument that was developed in France and was inspired by traditional instruments like the Balinese gamelan.
The Koshi consists of a set of hollow metal tubes that are tuned to produce different notes when struck with a mallet or tapped with a finger. The tubes are made of a special alloy that gives them a warm and resonant sound, with a long sustain of sound and vibration.
The Koshi is often used in sound therapy sessions, either as a standalone instrument or in combination with other instruments like Tibetan bowls, gongs, or drums. The vibrations produced by the Koshi can help to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, improve sleep, and reduce physical pain and discomfort.
The Koshi is also used to accompany meditation, as its gentle and melodious sound helps to focus the mind and enhance the experience of stillness.
Heartbeat
The heartbeat, a primal rhythm that pulses within us from the moment of conception, holds a profound significance in mindfulness practices and its impacts on our well-being. At the core of mindfulness lies the art of paying attention to the present moment, and the heartbeat serves as a powerful anchor for this practice. By turning our awareness inward to the steady throb of our hearts, we connect with the essence of our existence and the flow of life within us.
Listening to the heartbeat with a mindful presence brings a sense of grounding and stability. It acts as a constant reminder of the present, anchoring us to the “here and now” amidst the distractions and demands of modern life. As we observe the heartbeat, we become attuned to the flow of sensations and emotions, accepting them without judgment or resistance. This acceptance fosters a deeper understanding of ourselves and a compassionate embrace of our experiences, even during moments of stress or unease.
The heartbeat’s qualities go beyond its physical aspects, delving into the realm of emotions and mental well-being. Mindfully focusing on the heartbeat can induce a state of relaxation, reducing stress, anxiety, and even the perception of pain. The rhythmic cadence of the heartbeat has the remarkable ability to synchronize with our breath, promoting a sense of calm and inner harmony. As mindfulness practices become integrated into our daily lives, we may notice increased resilience and emotional regulation, enabling us to navigate challenges with greater ease.
Embracing the heartbeat as a focal point in mindfulness cultivates an intimate connection with our own bodies and minds. Through this connection, we tap into the innate wisdom that resides within us, fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-compassion. As the heartbeat becomes a guiding force in our mindfulness journey, we embark on a path of greater presence, gratitude, and balance, enriching our lives with the profound impacts of this simple yet extraordinary rhythm.
Breath of Life
The breath of life, a timeless rhythm that sustains us from birth to the very end, holds profound qualities in mindfulness practices and its transformative impacts on our well-being. At the heart of mindfulness lies the art of conscious breathing, a simple yet powerful tool that serves as a gateway to the present moment. By mindfully attending to the breath, we become intimately connected with the essence of existence, acknowledging the constant flow of life within us.
The breath acts as an ever-present anchor in mindfulness, drawing us back to the “here and now” with each inhale and exhale. Observing the breath with gentle awareness allows us to release the grip of past regrets and future worries, embracing the present with open-hearted acceptance. As we focus on the breath, the mind naturally quiets, and the internal chatter dissipates, creating a profound sense of stillness and inner peace.
Beyond its role as a focal point, the breath also possesses unique qualities that positively impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Mindful breathing triggers the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and promoting a sense of calmness. The rhythmic nature of the breath synchronizes with the body’s autonomic functions, fostering harmony between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. This balance cultivates a state of equilibrium, improving sleep quality and overall physiological health.
On an emotional level, the breath of life becomes a vessel for self-regulation and emotional intelligence. Mindful breathing enables us to observe emotions without being overwhelmed by them, nurturing a compassionate understanding of our inner world. Through this awareness, we gain the capacity to respond rather than react to challenging situations, fostering emotional resilience and fostering healthy relationships.
Nature Sounds
Nature sounds hold remarkable qualities in mindfulness practices, inviting us to embrace the present moment with a sense of tranquility. Immersed in the gentle melodies of flowing streams, rustling leaves, or harmonious birdsong, we become attuned to the beauty of the “here and now”. As we mindfully listen to these sounds, our nervous system responds, inducing a state of relaxation and inner calm. The mind naturally quiets, and stress begins to dissipate, allowing us to experience profound peace and stillness within.
Regular exposure to these calming melodies has been linked to lowered blood pressure, reduced stress hormones, and improved sleep quality. Nature sounds act as a natural balm for the mind and body, promoting physical and emotional healing, and fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and the environment. They serve as a gentle reminder of our innate connection to the world, inviting a sense of oneness with the rhythms of nature and the awe-inspiring beauty it beholds.
In a fast-paced world, immersing ourselves in nature sounds offers a sanctuary of mindfulness and renewal. With each breath infused with the melodies of the earth, we embark on a transformative journey, experiencing the profound impacts of mindfulness on our inner and outer worlds. Nature sounds become a conduit to inner peace, rejuvenation, and a deeper connection to the timeless rhythm of life, reminding us to savor the simple and awe-inspiring moments nature graciously offers.
Fire
The sound of fire is a unique and powerful element that has deep connections to the earth, the cosmos, and the soul. It is a natural element that has been present on earth since the beginning of time and has been used by various cultures in ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual practices.
The sound of fire can evoke a sense of grounding and connection to the earth, reminding us of our place in the natural world. The mesmerizing patterns of flames and the crackling sounds they make can evoke a sense of wonder and awe, reminding us of the vastness and mystery of the universe.
The qualities of fire’s sound in mindfulness extend beyond its auditory charm, as it serves as a catalyst for inner reflection and contemplation. In the comforting symphony of crackling flames, we encounter the impermanence of life, realizing that just as the fire’s sound arises and fades, so do our thoughts and emotions. This understanding nurtures a deeper sense of acceptance, enabling us to embrace the flow of experiences with grace and presence. As we attune our awareness to the sound of fire, we open ourselves to the richness of the present moment, finding solace in its gentle embrace.
The impacts of fire’s sound in mindfulness span emotional and mental well-being. The rhythmic crackling induces a state of relaxation, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. The sound of fire becomes a comforting lullaby, inviting the mind to settle and unburden itself from the distractions of the outside world.