Your mind processes 300 worries per hour. Here's the off switch.
5 science-backed ways to stop overthinking (and quiet your mind) - courtesy of my friend Suren Samarchyan:
1. Practice "Thought Parking"
➟ Let yourself worry, but only for 10 minutes ➟ Write it all down and leave it parked on paper
💡Brain scans show people who write about their feelings better control their emotions.
2. Reset with the “5-5-5 Rule”
➟ When in a thought loop, ask if it’ll matter in 5 minutes, 5 days, or 5 years
💡 Zen masters call this "the long view". It’s not about ignoring feelings but putting them in perspective.
3. Reality-Shift Back to Now
➟ When you catch yourself overthinking, focus onyour senses ➟ Notice your back pressed against the chair ➟ Listen for the hum of your computer or thetraffic noise in the distance
💡 30 seconds of focusing on your senses activates your parasympathetic nervous system
4. Set a Daily Decision Limit
➟ Create a capsule wardrobe of 10 mix-match pieces ➟ Eat the same energizing breakfast Monday-Friday ➟ Automate bill payments and subscriptions
💡 We make up to 35,000 decisions daily, each one draining mental energy
5. Move your Body for 5 mins to Reset
➟ A quick burst of movement can refresh your thoughts ➟ Stretch your arms up and twist gently side to side
💡 Just 5 minutes of movement releases GABA, your brain’s natural anti-anxiety compound
Overthinking is not a defect; it's your mind trying to protect you.
But it needs to know when to step back.
Which method will you start today?
