What to do against overthinking: Ways out of the thought carousel

Can't you turn it off either, this endless carousel of thoughts? Do your thoughts constantly revolve around the same topics without finding a solution? Then you're in good company. Overthinking is a widespread phenomenon. But don't worry: there are effective strategies for getting off this mental merry-go-round. In this article, we'll give you some ideas on how to do just that.

Was tun gegen Overthinking: Wege aus dem Gedankenkarussell

What to do against overthinking: Ways out of the thought carousel | All images on this page: Adobe Stock

Mindfulness Exercises: A key to calming the mind

Mindfulness is a powerful practice that has gained increasing recognition in recent years, especially as a means of coping with stress and anxiety. It teaches us to live in the present moment and not constantly dwell on the past or the future. When we are mindful, we are fully present in the here and now without getting carried away by our thoughts. Exercises such as meditation or conscious breathing can be especially helpful in quieting the mind and breaking the habit of overthinking.

 

Overthinking - Practical tips for mindfulness exercises:

  • Start with simple breathing exercises: Focus on your breath and let your thoughts pass by like clouds in the sky.
  • Perform a body scan meditation: In doing so, you go through your entire body in your mind and simply notice what is without evaluating it.
  • Use mindfulness apps: There are numerous apps available to help you integrate mindfulness into your daily life.
  • Practice regularly: As with anything, mindfulness requires practice. Set aside time each day for your mindfulness practice.
  • Be patient with yourself: Your mind will wander - that's perfectly normal. The important thing is to keep gently returning to your breath or your body.

Writing down thoughts: An effective tool for clearing the mind

When the mind is overwhelmed by endless loops of thoughts, writing them down can often be a great help. Writing down thoughts gives us a tangible representation of what is going on in our minds. It can help us sort out our thoughts and recognize which of them are based on facts and which are simply the product of our fears and worries. Often, by writing them down, we realize that many of our fears are unfounded and that we are worrying about things that will never happen.

 

Stop Overthinking - Writing Down Thoughts:

  • Keep a thought diary: Every day, write down what's on your mind and observe which thoughts keep recurring.
  • Write down your worries: Before going to bed, write down all the worries and fears that are on your mind. This way you can let them go and sleep better.
  • Make a pro-con list: If you're faced with a decision and don't know what to do, a pro-con list can help.
  • Write letters you will never send: Sometimes it helps to write down all the unspoken thoughts and feelings as if you were telling them to someone.
  • Use creative writing techniques: For example, free writing, where you just write without thinking about spelling or grammar.

Was tun gegen Overthinking: Wege aus dem Gedankenkarussell

Discover our tips against overthinking

Was tun gegen Overthinking: Wege aus dem Gedankenkarussell

Overthinking: Ways out of the thought carousel - Get inspired!

Set time limits for decision making: A path to efficiency

It's perfectly normal to think about decisions and run through all possible scenarios before making a choice. But if you find yourself mulling over a decision for hours, even days, you may have fallen into the trap of overthinking. In such cases, it can be helpful to set yourself a time limit for decision making. Once that time is up, base your decision on the information you have at that time. This can help you avoid endless ruminating and make more efficient decisions.

 

What to do about overthinking - Helpful tips on how to make more effective decisions:

  • Set a time limit for decisions: When the time is up, make a decision based on the information you have.
  • Accept that you will not have all the information: Perfectionism can lead to decision paralysis. It is okay to make a decision based on incomplete information.
  • Distinguish between big and small decisions: Not every decision has far-reaching consequences. Use less time for smaller decisions.
  • Trust your gut: Sometimes we know intuitively what is right for us. Allow yourself to listen to this inner voice.
  • Reflect on your decisions: After you make a decision, look back and learn from it for future decisions.

Exercise: A natural mood booster

Physical activity is not only good for our body, but also for our mind. It can help clear the mind and reduce excessive thinking. When we exercise, we can focus on our bodies and take our minds off our thoughts. Regular exercise, whether in the form of walking, yoga or more intense activities, can be very helpful in stopping the mind carousel and helping us feel better and more energized.

 

What Helps Against Overthinking - Helpful tips on how to incorporate exercise into your daily routine:

  • Take regular walks: The fresh air and exercise can do wonders to clear your mind.
  • Practice yoga: Yoga is an excellent way to balance body and mind.
  • Use your lunch break for a short workout: Even a short workout can help clear your head.
  • Dance to your favorite music: Dancing is a great way to move your body and have fun at the same time.
  • Try different sports: Whether running, cycling or swimming - find out which sport you enjoy the most and helps you clear your head.
Was tun gegen Overthinking: Wege aus dem Gedankenkarussell

Discover our tips against overthinking

Was tun gegen Overthinking: Wege aus dem Gedankenkarussell

Overthinking: Ways out of the thought carousel - Get inspired!

Seek support: You are not alone

Overthinking can sometimes become so intense that it is hard to deal with on your own. It's important to know that it's okay to ask for help, and that there are many resources available to you. From professional help like therapy or counseling to support groups and online forums, there are many ways to find support. A therapist or counselor can offer specific techniques and strategies to help you cope with overthinking. They can help you identify patterns in thinking that lead to Overthinking and give you tools to break those patterns. You are not alone in this struggle, and it is not a weakness to seek help when you need it.

 

Overthinking - Valuable tips on how to seek and find help:

  • Seek out a therapist: A therapist can offer you specific techniques and strategies to manage overthinking.
  • Participate in support groups: Sharing with others who have similar experiences can be very reassuring and helpful.
  • Use online resources: There are many websites and apps that offer support for coping with overthinking.
  • Read books on the topic: Books can provide insight into the causes of overthinking and helpful advice on how to cope.
  • Talk to friends and family: Sometimes a frank conversation with someone you trust can be a big help.

Would you like to discover more inspiring stories, useful tips and helpful recommendations around the topic of (mental) health and beauty, nutrition and wellness? Then feel free to browse through my other blog posts!

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Conclusion what to do about overthinking

Overthinking can seem like an endless cycle of going around and around in circles. It can be exhausting and frustrating to get caught in the same thought loops over and over again. But it's important to know that there are ways to break this cycle. Whether it's through mindfulness exercises, writing down thoughts, setting time limits for decision-making, exercising regularly, or seeking professional support, there are many strategies that can help you break the cycle of overthinking and calm your mind.

It is also important to remember that everyone is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It may take a period of trial and error to figure out what strategies work best for you. Be patient with yourself and remember that every small step in the right direction is a success.

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