Over the past 4-5 weeks we’ve discussed different factors that can affect wellness: sleep, self-compassion, managing stress, social support, and activating the relaxation response. Today I would like to talk about how thinking can impact wellness and share some thoughts about how you might manage or change thinking to boost well-being.
Our thoughts, emotions, and stress response system all affect one another. As an example, try this thought experiment.
Imagine you have a flat tire. Tell yourself “oh this is terrible”, “why are all these things happening to me” and “this will set me back all day”. How does that feel?
Now, take a deep breath. Again imagine you have a flat tire. Tell yourself “I’m so glad I have Triple A to come and fix my tire”, “this is the first flat I have had in many years’, “this is nice, I have some time to just relax”. How does that feel? Do you notice your mood lighten?
And the good news we can influence how we interpret events. Much of our thinking doesn’t reflect an actual reality; instead, thinking can be seen as what our mind does to interpret our experiences and happenings. Thoughts can be like a filter or film that shades our experiences. However our body doesn’t know the difference. It reacts to tragic or negative thoughts as if it is the reality. Negative thinking activates the hormones and neurochemicals related to negative events. On the other hand, thinking positively spurs our body to feel better. Hopeful and resourceful thoughts can brighten our mood.
I am not saying to stop all negative thoughts, that can become a negative thought in itself. I am saying to give ourselves the best chance to be well. When you notice a negative pattern of thinking, or a dark mood, try mindfully stepping back from what you’re thinking. Take a breath. Let the thought like a cloud pass, or consider another way you might interpret what’s happening. Thoughts are just that, thoughts. Why not select the filter that most brightens your day?
Michael V. Burke, Ed.D
Program Director and NDC Counselor/ CTTS
