Author: Mental. And Manic
Contributor: Mental. But Not Alone
Your hair’s too frizzy.
You talk too much.
Your body’s too disproportionate.
You are too messy.
You’re never going to get through this.
You are too much!
Sound familiar?
Our minds have a, we’ll say, unique habit of criticizing us when we’re feeling the most down. We spend so many hours on therapy, finally getting prescribed medication, celebrating the summer solstice and practicing all the witchy manifestation rituals we can think of, all to no avail. Why? Our minds are getting in the way.
Have you ever felt like you’re being “too much”? But then by being “too much” you try over-compensating and start acting so out of character that maybe NOW you’re being too much?
But now you’re not being authentic which is making you feel crazy which is making you act weird and now THAT is too much? Whew.
Maybe you’re feeling depressed and unable to get out of bed. Your mind starts telling you you’re lazy, and by being lazy you’re a horrible person that nobody can rely on. Next thing you know, your mind is telling you, “what’s the point in even living? I’ll never get out of this rut.”
Your mind is sabotaging you!
*deep breath*
Science (and evolution) tells us our brains are quite literally hardwired to perpetuate this negative self-talk (heyyyy negativity bias) 👋
Your mind becomes your worst critic when you are feeling insecure or going through a moment of anxiety, depression, mania, OCD, addiction, grief, or whatever it is you are experiencing.
But good news!! Science says we can change this!! Yay neuroplasticity!
By repeatedly working to reframe the way we talk to ourselves (or at least quieting the negative self-talk), we can train ourselves to slowly eliminate the bad (intrusive, horrible, FUCKING MEAN) thoughts we have about ourselves.
It is more important than ever to have tips and tools to help you quiet your mind.
Your peaceful place.
Your mantra “that’s the anxiety (etc) talking.”
Your ability to remove yourself from the situation, mentally (or even physically if need be), and come back with a fresh perspective.
Wash your face. Drink some water. Go for a walk and listen to a podcast. Anything to remind yourself this is an experience crafted by your critical mind and you are truly capable of rising above.
You are strong. You are worth it. Somebody (me!!) cares.
You are definitely mental. But you are not alone.