Almost 50 percent of our problems stem from overthinking, which most of us tend to do on a regular day to day basis. Nothing troubles us as much as your overestimated thoughts that further leads to severe anxiety. It keeps us from positivity and living your best life.
We got Dr Rahul Khemani, Consultant Psychiatrist in Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai to elaborate on healthy ways to stop overthinking and calm your nerves.
1. Distract yourself
You will have to avoid overthinking just by doing activities that you like. Try to sing, listen to music, read, cook, do gardening, learn a new language, opt for photography or develop any other skill that you like. You can also volunteer with a local organisation and help needy people.
2. Meditate
It is the need of the hour to meditate, calm down, overcome stress and anxiety that can arise due to overthinking. You can meditate on a daily basis for at least 15-20 minutes as you get time.
3. Deep breathing can do the trick
If you happen to overthink and feel anxious, then just take a few deep breaths and you will feel rejuvenated.
4. Get over your past
Do not sit and overthink about what went wrong in your past. Let go of your past and concentrate on the present. You should not overthink and get stuck in the past. Accept what has happened in the past, forget and just move on. Have faith that the future looks bright for you, and you will have a lot of opportunities to shine.
5. Spread happiness
You need to put all your energy into helping someone who is in distress. It can be your family member, friend, neighbour or colleague. For example, you can help your sick neighbour with medicines and groceries. Take care of a family member who is going through a divorce or any financial crisis.
6. Self-compassion
It will be imperative for you to be sensitive toward yourself. Note down the trigger of stress after overthinking. Journaling can help you to deal with negative thoughts. Acknowledge your feelings. Accept yourself the way you are and avoid negative thinking. Try to have an optimistic approach and avoid dwelling on problems. Be compassionate towards others too.
7. Get rid of your fears
Try to conquer your fears and face them without any hesitation. Doing so can ease your anxiety due to overthinking about the things that are causing fear.
8. Exercise
Doing so can distract you from negativity, release those feel-good hormones endorphins, and can help you to beat anxiety. You can do aerobics, swimming, walking, yoga, gymming, Pilates, or even cycling. Try to invest your time in helping yourself to get better and avoid negativity. Stay active and stress-free!
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