Do you ever find yourself obsessing over your thoughts? Stuck in a “can’t do” mindset? Feeling like that negative cycle is never going to end?
Did you know all of these negative thoughts and cycles are completely reversible?
We have all been told at one point or another, that we need to change our thoughts in order to feel better about something. Sometimes that can be really hard, especially, if you’re are dealing with deep-rooted trauma or depression. But, just like physical exercise, exercising your brain with positive thoughts, can completely change your reactions and emotions to certain situations.
This is through a concept called Neuroplasticity.
It’s hardly a new concept, but with modern technology and cognitive therapies, we are learning so much more about how much our thoughts can actually change our everyday life.
Neuroplasticity says that our brains are similar to plastic in the way that they can adapt and reform, even after trauma. (Physical and emotional). Our everyday thoughts, memories, and knowledge form neural pathways that connect to each other in our brain. Much like roads, the smaller the pathway, the more congested it becomes. The larger the pathway, the easier it is to flow. Which pathway do you think is easier for us to process? The one that flows? Or the one that’s congested?
The one that flows, right? And if the one that flows is filled with negative thoughts and habits, this means it’s much easier to think about it on a daily basis. Thus keeping us in the same cycle we are so desperate to break out of.
That’s why neuroscientists believe that with some practice and commitment, we can physically change our neural pathways to form new, free-flowing connections… aka POSITIVE THOUGHTS! We have a median of 70,000 thoughts a day, and if most of those thoughts are negative, chances are, they will reoccur and continue to do so the more that we think of them. Habitual thoughts and habits, like telling ourselves “I’m not good at anything” or “I’m too tired to get out of bed” form deeper and deeper grooves in these pathways. This makes it that much harder to do the opposite of those thoughts. When you choose to form positive thoughts and habits, you’re reforming and reshaping new grooves, and breaking that cycle!
What I found to be even more interesting is that the same goes for learning and development in children. Intelligence is not something someone is born with, it’s something that forms and develops as we grow. That’s why they say children’s brains are like sponges. They have new connections forming and firing off every day while learning. Whether it’s walking or algebra.
In fact, a 2007 study in Child Development proved that when students are told that intelligence is not fixed, both morale and grade points saw significant improvement. It just further proves that what we say to our children shapes their lives more than we know.
So how do we start rewiring our brains?
Start small. Gradually take on new self-care habits, and build on those. Definitely avoid taking on too much or putting too much pressure on overnight results. Just like forming abs, it takes dedication and time to work those new muscles in the brain.
Here are some tips and reminders as you get started on your journey:
- WORDS MATTER. Mantras and affirmations are so critical to our daily self-care. This isn’t just philosophy, it’s science! Whatever you are trying to fix, repeat to yourself daily words that are meant to make you feel better. Words like “I am enough” “I love my body” “ I am capable” And don’t just say them, BELIEVE THEM. Buddha had a clue when he said “What you think, you become” If you’re having a hard time creating affirmations, I suggest following Lindsey Eryn on Pinterest. She has some awesome “Pep Talk” graphics that are very helpful.
- LIFT THE ENERGY IN YOUR ENVIRONMENT. The more you place yourself in a negative space, the more those negative thoughts can creep in. Start simple. Put up some artwork that makes you happy. Play energetic music while decluttering. Open the windows and use an oil diffuser or candle with your favorite smell. (Lavender is calming, citrus is energizing)
- PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE. Whether it’s a morning routine, bedtime ritual, or a workout in between, it’s important to set a little bit of “me” time. Personally, I am not a morning person, and bedtime is dedicated to my son, so my routine happens in the early afternoons while my son naps. I use that time to cook, read, stretch & hydrate. They are small acts, but as a mom, it truly helps me re-energize.
- SLEEP WELL. So much easier said than done, I know! Getting good sleep is so important for mental health. Good sleep reduces stress, helps with clear thoughts and rational emotions. If you struggle with falling asleep, turn off the screen and try promoting sleep with different things like:
A relaxing bath.
Drinking tea (lemon balm, chamomile, or lavender) to calm your mind.
Journaling and reflecting on all of those thoughts you had during the day.
Getting lost in a book.
Bedtime yoga.
All in all, the most important thing, is to take it easy on yourself. It’s okay to slip up with a bad day or negative feeling. Be forgiving, stay committed, and practice, practice, practice. You can do this!
(You can learn more about Neuroplasticity and positive psychology here.)
Written by: Aryanna Salazar
