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“I was having an attack of sadness, but now I’m ready to face the world again.” That’s a pretty common thought for me that creeps into my self-talk from time-to-time… but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, is it?!
Sadness can be a healthy emotion, so long as it doesn’t grow into depression. I liken it to walking around a hole; walking around a hole – in a circle – looking into the dark abyss… but staying far enough away from the depth and darkness of the hole so I don’t risk getting sucked into the vortex.
I think that’s part of why I love cognitive therapies to help me maintain better mental health. I’ve learned how to turn the vortex to the cortex! Cognitive therapy targets the cortex – the thinking brain – reshaping how information is processed. Cognition sounds complicated, but it’s just thought. Cognitive therapies can help you train your brain and change your thinking patterns.
We have a saying in recovery circles: “If you want to be depressed, get yourself a past. If you want to have anxiety, get yourself a future!” Cognitive therapies have helped me to decrease rumination, alleviate depression & anxiety, and stay focused on the present. I’ve trained my brain to develop different thinking circuits that bring me better results and help me maintain better mental health.
Repeated experiences shape our brain. What you practice grows stronger!
The neuroplasticity of the brain makes it possible to sculpt & strengthen our synaptic connections with repeated practice.
When we can use cognitive therapies together with mindfulness techniques, we can learn to pay attention in the present moment, with kindness and non-judgement. We learn to use moment-by-moment mindfulness to exert persistent & consistent efforts.
Eckhart Tolle in The Power of Now talks about the “process of transmutation.” The pain becomes the fuel for the flame of your consciousness which then burns more brightly as a result. We can turn suffering into consciousness where the split within you heals and you become whole again.
Tolle says to, “Focus your attention on the feeling inside you. Accept that it is there. Don’t let the feeling turn into thinking. Don’t assess, judge, or analyze and don’t make an identity for yourself out of it. Stay present and continue being the observer of what is happening inside you. The one who observes… the silent watcher… it’s the power of your own conscious presence.”
Mindfulness practice can help you connect with the power of your own conscious presence. Mindfulness is simply being in the present moment, without judgement. It’s a difficult thing to do for most of us who are more like human “doings” instead of human “beings.” We seem to be hardwired to “assess, judge, evaluate” at all times! It can be exhausting.
At least once a day, take some time to stay present with your breath and shift attention to your heart centre. Place your hand over your heart. Slow your breathing to 5 seconds in and 5 seconds out. As you breathe, feel the feelings of appreciation, gratitude, compassion.
Want some help to build better habits and foster better mental health? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line at info@redroofrecovery.com. Let’s connect and start your journey together!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tanya MacIntyre is a Certified CBT Practitioner, Mental Health Professional, and owner/operator of Red Roof Recovery.
DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended to constitute, or be a substitute for, medical diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard medical advice from a doctor, or delay in seeking it, because of something you have watched, read, or heard from anyone at Red Roof Recovery.