“Overthinking will not empower you over things that are beyond your control. So, let it be if it is meant to be and cherish the moment.” ― Mahsati A
The brain is wired to think all day, every day. Even when we are sleeping, the brain does not rest entirely. However, not taking time to rest the brain at all, results in not being present.
When we are not present, the brain goes into default mode, which is when the decision-making part of your brain does not work quite well.
According to recent research conducted on the human brain and how overthinking influences it, they have concluded that the default mode network is a group of brain regions that express lower levels of activity while we are involved in a certain undertaking, while higher levels happen during waking hours and we are not engaged in any particular mental task.
This usually happens during overthinking, and has links to default mode and mental disorder such as schizophrenia, depress and anxiety.
Psychology Professor at the University of Michigan, Susan Nolen-Hoeksema, discovered that overthinking usually happens in middle aged and young adults, ranging from 25-35 years of age.
This makes up 73% of the total number. Of course, women tend to overthink more than men do; hence, the ratio for this research was 57% of women and 43% of men.
The mind, much like a small child, pertains to the idea that we must have everything here and now, impatiently thinking about how to go about achieving it.
Allowing the brain to be in the constant state of anxiety due to impatience can lead to anger, depression and overthinking, which are all toxic to your mental health.
Below are 11 quotes which can assure you that overthinking is unnecessary:
1. Overthinking is the art of creating problems that weren’t even there.
2. Overthinking is the biggest cause of unhappiness.
3. A quiet mind is able to hear intuition over fear.
3. Dear mind, please stop thinking so much at night. I need sleep.
4. Worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere.
5. Stop worrying about what can go wrong, and get excited about what can go right.
6. Before you talk, listen. Before you react, think. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try!
7. There is nothing in this world that can trouble you as much as your own thoughts.
8. Don’t ruin a new day by thinking about yesterday. Let it go.
9. You will never be free until you free yourself from the prison of your false thoughts.
10. Stop overthinking. You can’t control everything, let it be.
So, how to stop overthinking? Here are some ideas:
When you are overthinking, what thoughts come to your mind? Most of the time, your thoughts are occupied around your responsibilities for the day, or even what someone said that angered you.
At times, we tend to bring ourselves down by dwelling on it. For example, we may say things like, why someone said what he or she said. People don’t think twice what they say and why, so why should you?
This usually happens due to all the negativity around us and retaining a stable positive mindset is not as easily said than done. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to turn the negative words and over thinking by repeating peaceful words.
Once you have caught yourself overthinking or worrying, stop and replace the thoughts with peaceful ones that make you feel better. Try whatever works.
Despite not entirely quieting the mind, it does stop overthinking for a while, slows down the mind, and helps in focusing in the moment. Words can be used for many things, like bringing you a peace of mind.
Many people have turned to meditation in times of distress, depression and overthinking. For one, it helps end the stream of overthinking and negative thoughts overwhelm your consciousness every second. In this instance, try relocating into a place where stillness takes priority.
You do not always have to shut down your mind so you can meditate. However, it does help make the process easier. Many have found that while meditating, the overthinking stops altogether and peace prevails.
Despite all the facts stated above, there are times you simply cannot stop thinking. In this case, it might be a good idea to try a guided meditation or even yoga. Such rehearses bring mindfulness into the body, making it easier to overcome hardships, stress and overthinking.
Most people do not live or work in nature, so it may be tough to visit nature on a daily basis. However, these people especially those closed up in offices need it the most.
This is why it is recommended to get out into nature as often as possible. Instead of going to the nearby fast food for lunch, you may want to visit your local park instead. It is a very healthy and healing process to be in nature as much as you can.
Establishing a significant connection with nature will greatly influence and benefit your brain, in turn stop the overthinking.
While in nature, try to ponder on the beauty you see around you, like the leaves on the trees, mountains, the sky or sun – whatever you see around you that may bring you peace of mind. In turn, this will stop your brain right way.
Doing this on a daily basis helps you think more clearly and feel more peacefully.
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A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.
