Our minds are valuable tools, but sometimes they can just be annoying. Especially when they try to take over, creating an endless stream of thoughts that leave us spinning.
It would not be so bad if they were beautiful and uplifting thoughts, but when our minds gets in this state it’s favorite subjects are usually worry, fear, self-judgment, and guilt.
Who needs that?
Your mind is not who you are. It does not control you. Here are 5 simple tools to try when your brain goes into monkey mind mode:
Prayer and/or Meditation - the ultimate peace giving tools
Mindful Movement – go for a walk or run and count your steps
Focused Activities – Find an activity that requires or inspires your full attention. Ideas that have worked for others include art, crafts, building things, puzzles, gardening, and sports.
Visualization – Picture the thoughts spinning in your head and then move them to a place outside of you.
Challenging Your Thoughts – Ask yourself if the thoughts are really true and if they serve you. If not, let them go. Repeat this process until your mind understands what kinds of thoughts you are willing to keep.
