In today’s Mindful Monday we’re looking at a simple task you can do to slow your thoughts. This task can make it easier to process your thoughts in the longer term, but avoid processing your thoughts during this actual task.
Step 1
Set a 20 minute timer for this task.
Start by noticing your thoughts, including the speed of them. At first, you might find it difficult to notice them, but you will be able to with some practice. Don’t pass judgement on them…just notice that they’re there.
Step 2
Notice the speed of your thoughts. You will likely find that they’re moving quite fast. Again, don’t pass any judgement on them.
Step 3
Now, imagine those thoughts as little balls bouncing around, bouncing off the walls and each other. Notice how fast they’re moving and how chaotic it all looks.
Step 4
Now, imagine the speed of those reducing, so that the balls are moving much more calmly. Notice how hard it hits the surfaces and then imagine that strength reducing, as your thoughts begin to calm down.
If 20 minutes seems like too much, start out with a shorter time. It doesn’t matter if you only manage 2 or 3 minutes at first. So long as you persist, you will achieve increasing amounts of time.
Find out more
Find out more about mindfulness in the post where we kicked off Mindful Mondays or here. Or, check out our other mindfulness posts.
