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How to Stop the Flow of Negative Thoughts: 3 Working Techniques from Psychologists
10.10.2024 16:14
Negative thinking can be called a real scourge of the twenty-first century, and no wonder: people have to face such problems as climate change, epidemics, military actions, etc.
The top 3 effective techniques from psychologists, which we have collected in this article, will help you cope with negativity. Don’t hesitate – return yourself to a positive outlook on life as soon as possible.
Thought Stopping Technique
Have you ever wondered what the word "nirvana" means? Many people think it's a state of serene happiness. However, Tibetan yogis have a precise definition of this state: the complete absence of thoughts.
There are a lot of thoughts constantly floating around in our minds, and it can be very difficult to stop them. But there are simple techniques that will help you reboot. Hold your breath and try to keep the “emptiness” (lack of thoughts) in your head for 1-3 seconds. Try it, and you will feel how the negativity leaves you.
Listening to your favorite music
The human brain can only perform one mental operation at a time, so if you feel like you're caught up in negative thoughts, put on your favorite tracks and immerse yourself in listening to them.
Since you will be focused on the auditory perception of the music and lyrics, you will no longer be able to wind yourself up.
Thought Postponement Technique
Remember Scarlett O'Hara from Gone with the Wind, who, when faced with a difficult decision, would say she'd think about it tomorrow.
When a negative thought bothers you, tell yourself, “I’ll come back to this tomorrow/in three hours/or another time.” Then switch to any activity, such as cleaning. If you’re outside, try counting red cars or people wearing black, and you’ll see that it works.
