May 11 • Written By Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

 

We all struggle with negative thoughts at times. Sometimes when stress is high and we are feeling anxious, it can be hard to shake them off. Thankfully, when we become self-aware, we can tap into our power and change our thoughts. The more we practice ways to handle negative thoughts the easier it becomes.

Changing negative thoughts is not only a way to reduce anxiety it also paves the way to mental clarity. When you are more present and not distracted by negative thoughts you don’t miss out on the small joys and pleasures of everyday life. You also have more brain power to effectively problem-solve the challenges that may come your way.

The key to reducing negative thoughts is practicing healthy strategies with intention. Start to think of your mind like a garden. Taking the time to carefully tend to it regularly, will allow you to take a deep breath, relax and enjoy being YOU.

Do you need to turn down the volume on negative thoughts?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here are a few straightforward ways that you can handle negative thoughts that want to interrupt your day:

Be conscious of your thoughts.

The very first thing you hear when you wake up is your inner voice. Is it time to think about how the first thoughts of your day are creating your future?

When we focus on the negative and expect the worst it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Or worse, it robs you of the small joys and pleasures that make our day to day lives worthwhile. In either case, consider the landscape you are creating with your thoughts as you become more aware of them.

As you become more self-aware of your thoughts, you begin to change the landscape of your surroundings and create the mental space that you want to come home to.

Keep Busy.

Sometimes negative thoughts can seem inevitable. But, before you get completely sucked in to watching the same bad movie again in your head, hit pause, and get busy instead. When you get involved in tasks that require you to move your body and engage your mind it can shift you into the present. Focusing on what IS instead of what IFs.

Try going for a walk outside without your phone and being mindful of your surroundings. Or you can try doing something with your hands like organizing your closet or doing the dishes.

While always keeping busy as a way to avoid your feelings in not healthy; sometimes when you are stuck on a negative loop switching gears and getting active can be exactly what is needed to reset your mind.

Laughter.

“Laughter is the best medicine”, is not just something people say just to cheer you up, it turns out there is science that backs it up. Laughing out loud not only relieves stress and anxiety, but it also stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles while giving your body and mind a big healthy dose of oxygen.

Laughter is not just a quick fix. It can also have lasting long term effects. When you build more laughter into your day it may improve your immune system by decreasing the negative thoughts that add stress to your body. It can also help you connect with others and improve your ability to cope with difficult situations.

Get Rest.

Getting enough sleep and the right type of sleep is vital for our overall health. Sleeping is how your brain restores itself allowing it to function normally.  On average a person needs 6 to 8 hours of sleep. Not sleeping enough can make you feel grumpy and irritable. It can also make it difficult to concentrate and manage your emotions.

So, the next time you find yourself overreacting to small things and everyone seems to be getting on your nerves, it may be time to take an inventory of your sleep habits. Making sure you are getting a good night’s sleep is a great way to recharge and renew your mind.

Listen to Music.

Music has the power to transport your mind to another time and place.  Finding music that you enjoy and makes you feel good can be just the mini vacation you need to break free from your negative thoughts. Try finding a way to weave it into your day and see if you notice a difference.

You can listen to your favorite songs as you are getting ready in the morning to set the tone for the day. Maybe instead of working through your lunch break, you can sit down to eat lunch while listening to a relaxing song.

You may be surprised by the mental difference you feel when you build uplifting music into a regular part of your life.

Are you ready to start renewing your mind and turning down the volume of your negative thoughts? You’re worth it!