Greetings, Soul Family! Today, we’re addressing a deeply insightful question from one of our cherished Channel Members regarding the structure and effectiveness of subliminal affirmations—specifically, whether words like “no” or “not” are truly understood by the subconscious mind during meditation or subliminal programming.
This topic bridges ancient metaphysical teachings with modern cognitive science, and we believe it’s important to bring clarity and a little myth-busting to the conversation. If you've ever wondered how to word your affirmations for maximum energetic precision, —read on. You might be surprised at what the science has to say…
Comment: "I have a question please for our Friends at TSH: In Yoga, I was always taught that in a prayer or meditation, the subconscious and unconscious do not recognize the words " no" or " not". Therefore, if we say in a prayer or affirmation " I do not consent to the violation of the Divine Law", the subconscious will take that statement as an affirmation of one ' s consent....confusing, I know. So, just to be on the safe side, I prefer to say " I refuse any violation of the integrity of my Body and Being, which are sacred" . What do you think about the subject of using only positive points in prayers and affirmations, and avoiding the " not/no" words? Thank you. I really love your amazing contributions to our Wellbeing."
Answer: Thank you so much for this thoughtful and nuanced question, Nicola. It’s a conversation that we truly appreciate, as it brings to light the intersection between spiritual practice and subconscious programming , a subject close to our hearts here at The Sound Healers.
The idea that the subconscious "does not recognize negatives" such as "no" or "not" comes primarily from early New Thought teachings, especially those linked to metaphysical movements like the Unity Church or Science of Mind (also influenced by the works of Émile Coué and Napoleon Hill). These traditions emphasized the creative power of positive thinking and often taught that affirmations should be phrased in the positive to avoid accidentally reinforcing what one does not want. While useful in some contexts, this view is not supported by modern research in psychology, neurolinguistics, or hypnosis.
In reality, the subconscious mind is highly capable of processing negation. In fact, the word “no” is one of the very first commands understood in early childhood development, and in clinical hypnotherapy, direct negations such as “You will not feel pain” or “You do not accept outside interference” are routinely effective. Cognitive science (see the work of George Lakoff and other linguists) supports the idea that while negation is processed with more cognitive effort than affirmation, it is by no means ineffective or confusing for the subconscious.
Additionally, in ceremonial magic and protective rituals, such as those found in Hermeticism, Kabbalistic tradition, or Christian mystical practices, phrases like “I do not consent”, “I reject this energy”, "or Thou Shall NOT Trespass", are powerful declarations of sovereignty. They work not only because of syntax, but because of the energy and clarity of intention behind them.
That said, your instinct to speak in empowered, affirmative language like “I refuse any violation of the integrity of my body and being” is absolutely valid and spiritually potent. Both approaches can coexist beautifully. What truly matters is your clarity, your conviction, and your energetic alignment with the words you choose.
In summary: yes, “no” and “not” are highly recognized by the subconscious, especially in matters of protection, refusal, and boundary-setting. Your higher self knows what you mean. Speak your truth boldly, in whatever form your soul deems most resonant.
Once again, thank you for your question, and for being a valuable member of our Soul Family!
The Sound Healers ♪
Greetings, Soul Family! Today, we’re addressing a deeply insightful question from one of our cherished Channel Members regarding the structure and effectiveness of subliminal affirmations—specifically, whether words like “no” or “not” are truly understood by the subconscious mind during meditation or subliminal programming.
This topic bridges ancient metaphysical teachings with modern cognitive science, and we believe it’s important to bring clarity and a little myth-busting to the conversation. If you've ever wondered how to word your affirmations for maximum energetic precision, —read on. You might be surprised at what the science has to say…
Comment:
"I have a question please for our Friends at TSH:
In Yoga, I was always taught that in a prayer or meditation, the subconscious and unconscious do not recognize the words " no" or " not". Therefore, if we say in a prayer or affirmation " I do not consent to the violation of the Divine Law", the subconscious will take that statement as an affirmation of one ' s consent....confusing, I know. So, just to be on the safe side, I prefer to say " I refuse any violation of the integrity of my Body and Being, which are sacred" . What do you think about the subject of using only positive points in prayers and affirmations, and avoiding the " not/no" words? Thank you. I really love your amazing contributions to our Wellbeing."
Answer:
Thank you so much for this thoughtful and nuanced question, Nicola. It’s a conversation that we truly appreciate, as it brings to light the intersection between spiritual practice and subconscious programming , a subject close to our hearts here at The Sound Healers.
The idea that the subconscious "does not recognize negatives" such as "no" or "not" comes primarily from early New Thought teachings, especially those linked to metaphysical movements like the Unity Church or Science of Mind (also influenced by the works of Émile Coué and Napoleon Hill). These traditions emphasized the creative power of positive thinking and often taught that affirmations should be phrased in the positive to avoid accidentally reinforcing what one does not want. While useful in some contexts, this view is not supported by modern research in psychology, neurolinguistics, or hypnosis.
In reality, the subconscious mind is highly capable of processing negation. In fact, the word “no” is one of the very first commands understood in early childhood development, and in clinical hypnotherapy, direct negations such as “You will not feel pain” or “You do not accept outside interference” are routinely effective. Cognitive science (see the work of George Lakoff and other linguists) supports the idea that while negation is processed with more cognitive effort than affirmation, it is by no means ineffective or confusing for the subconscious.
Additionally, in ceremonial magic and protective rituals, such as those found in Hermeticism, Kabbalistic tradition, or Christian mystical practices, phrases like “I do not consent”, “I reject this energy”, "or Thou Shall NOT Trespass", are powerful declarations of sovereignty. They work not only because of syntax, but because of the energy and clarity of intention behind them.
That said, your instinct to speak in empowered, affirmative language like “I refuse any violation of the integrity of my body and being” is absolutely valid and spiritually potent. Both approaches can coexist beautifully. What truly matters is your clarity, your conviction, and your energetic alignment with the words you choose.
In summary: yes, “no” and “not” are highly recognized by the subconscious, especially in matters of protection, refusal, and boundary-setting. Your higher self knows what you mean. Speak your truth boldly, in whatever form your soul deems most resonant.
Once again, thank you for your question, and for being a valuable member of our Soul Family!
With Infinite Gratitude,
Rob
MAY THE BLESSINGS BE 🤍
- The Sound Healers (Rob, Danny, Gaïa and Aurēa)
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