In the world of affirmations, Louise Hay affirmations remain some of the most popular. She didn't invent affirmations, so why are they so popular?

To understand the popularity of Louise Hay affirmations we need to look into the popularity of the woman herself.

Louise Hay has been teaching on the subject of affirmations since she became a Religious Science practitioner in the 1970's. The major tenet of Religious Science or Science of the Mind is that because God is all there is in the universe, this power can be used by everyone if they recognize and align themselves with Its presence.

Through her experience teaching and through other studies, Ms. Hay has simplified many of the messages of teachers that came before her. She states in her books and in her lectures, "We are each responsible for all of our experiences."

This simple statement reflects the major tenet of her previous studies but the language is simpler - and appeals to a broader audience, perhaps.

Many people seek out Louise Hay affirmations when they are looking for natural ways to support healing. She self-published "You Can Heal Your Body" and it turned into a best seller.

She teaches that our every thoughts are creating our futures, and with that can come creating our own illnesses, or dis-ease as she refers to it. She created this little book as a list of affirmations that you could use to 'treat' ailments.

But her writing and teaching goes beyond just how to 'cure what ails you.' She teaches much about self-love being the most important first step to take in creating anything.

Critics would say that she has removed "God" and replaced it with "Self" but Louise Hay would argue that it is one in the same. You simply cannot love others or create good without loving yourself first. Often the simplest lessons are the most profound.

Seemingly, she and her affirmations remain so popular because of their simplicity and message of love. People of all backgrounds and education levels can read her books. She writes in a friendly easy style that is encouraging. She does not take the tone of a guru on a hill but more of a friendly aunt that you look forward to having tea with. And couldn't we all use a little more of that in our lives?