March 30, 2023
Negative Thoughts
We all experience negative thoughts from time to time. Sometimes, it can feel like they come out of nowhere and invade our minds like a storm. But why do we have negative thoughts in the first place?
Negative thoughts can stem from a variety of sources, such as past experiences, learned behavior, and even genetics. Our brains have evolved to prioritize negative information as a means of survival. When we encounter something negative, our brains register it as a threat and activate our fight or flight response. However, not all negative thoughts are useful or necessary for our survival.
The good news is that we don't have to act on these thoughts. Just like the new fashionable shoes on the rack, thoughts come and go. We can observe them without letting them dictate our actions or feelings.
Here are a few exercises or practices that can help us deal with negative thoughts:
• Mindfulness Meditation: This involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to observe our thoughts without getting caught up in them.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns. By replacing negative thoughts with more positive ones, we can change our outlook and behavior.
• Gratitude Journaling: Writing down things we are grateful for each day can help shift our focus from negative to positive.
Repeat after me: When a negative thought arises, I will observe it, challenge it, and it goes away.
Remember, negative thoughts are a natural part of the human experience. But by practicing mindfulness, challenging negative thought patterns, and cultivating gratitude, we can learn to manage them in a healthy way.
Namaste 🙏
Coach Dave
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