Waking up early, exercising, meditating, working on creative projects, spending time in nature, eating nourishing food, getting quality sleep… What do these things have in common? Most of us say we should do MORE of them, but just can’t seem to make it happen on a consistent...

The internet is overflowing with articles on ways to unwind and relax after a stressful day, which can be very useful… but an even more powerful strategy is to get to the source of the problem, and cut stress out before it even happens. By careful editing of your life, and changing certain habits, you can eliminate most common sources of stress in your life. It’s important to note that a totally stress-free life isn’t possible (or even desirable). Stress is a natural response to challenges and growth in life, and a life without challenges or growth is too boring to contemplate. However, many of us can agree that most of the stress in our lives is unnecessary, and that it can be eliminated by taking some simple steps. It can’t be accomplished overnight — but it’s a rewarding and worthy goal.

Every thought you think and every word you say is a declaration about who you are in this moment, and how you are perceiving the world. Whether you believe that life is a blissful, joyous, blessed experience -- or a difficult, miserable, stressful one -- YOU ARE RIGHT. Because, moment to moment, YOU are the creator of your experience. Here are 33 beautiful affirmations to empower, uplift and inspire you as you create your experience consciously, with ever-increasing love and gratitude.