I have been becoming more aware lately to pay attention to the thoughts that run through my mind. You know, that voice that seems to want to have a running monologue every day, all the time, unless you are sleeping. Years ago when I was a member of Al-Anon, a twelve step program, we often referred to it as “the squirrel in the cage”, turning the same thoughts over and over. Fortunately for me I have practiced a long time to try and be aware of what I am giving my attention to, what I am thinking.
Over the years I have also improved on not worrying about things. This too, Dear Reader, I think you understand. How many times have we all worried about so many topics, built them up in our minds, and have actually created a whole story that never happened? Mark Twain, the famous author of fictional story characters such as Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, has a wonderful quote which pokes fun at this habit we can all do unless we become more mindful: “I’ve lived through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened”. What a great reminder how our minds can just take off running with chaotic thoughts.
I have a few tips I use to help me get out of my own brain sometimes:
- I simply become aware of what I am thinking and if it is not serving me I say, “Stop it!”.
- I go for a prayer walk. Mother Nature always helps me stop that “squirrel in the cage” and I can choose to live in the moment again.
- I look around me and focus on what is in front of me. Or who is in front of me. Sometimes I deliberately look for something beautiful.
I would love it if you, Dear Reader, would like to share some tips in the comments on how to control your thoughts. How do you stop that “squirrel in the cage”, or stop building stories about other people or “terrible things”? I would love to hear from you!
c Love, Joan
In the “Sermon on the Mount,” Jesus counseled his followers to “Take no thought for tomorrow…” In other words, don’t dwell in anxiety about events that may or may not happen. Your tip #3 is excellent. Look around for the beautiful and good in the people and places where you are in the moment. We can make plans and decisions for the future but not live there. Too much thought about possible negatives will spoil the present. Baba Ram Dass’s version of this is “Be Here Now.”
Thank you my darling Man! Your thoughts on this topic are wonderful, especially since I know you try to live your own
advice! :O)
Great tips, Joan! When my mind is full of worries, I pause, place my hand on my heart and say, “I love you. What do you need?” Once I know what the worry is trying to provide, I can work to give myself what I actually need. That has made all the difference.
I love this beautiful Girl! I shall practice it myself!
I have not heard the Squirrel in the cage phrase, but that sure fits perfectly. I have a phrase that comes to mind when negative thoughts start spinning in my mind. “I could choose peace instead of this!” Breathing a few deep breaths can help reset my mind. Sometimes I say “Rick, what would you prefer to be thinking about?” Heading outside for a walk also helps, listening to some uplifting music or going into meditation with soft music helps me. I love your #3 idea – look around for beauty – that takes me into gratitude that helps refocus my thoughts. Thank you my friend!
Great tips here, Rick. I shall try them out myself. I love to be at peace in my mind and heart!