Thanking the brain

It’s doing its best…

We have seen that our brain is often trying to help us stay safe... but sometimes this stops us doing things that matter or blocks us from hearing the messages we need to experience (even if they are painful).

So, let’s say you have spotted the function of your thoughts, feelings and urges, and figured out they are not serving you right now... how do you let your brain take time off?

One technique ... and bear with me... is to

THANK OUR BRAIN

Step 1) Acknowledge

Hi brain [or whatever name you give it] I can see you are trying to [protect me from... help me achieve... get me to avoid]

Step 2) Thank

Thank you for trying to [protect me... help me reach my goals... keep me in with the group... remind me what matters to me...] I know you are trying to help/doing your best/doing what you are designed to do

Step 3) Choose your reaction

Right now, I don’t need protecting Or It might be worth experiencing this discomfort to get to the value on the other side Or This situation is safe

so, I hear you and still I choose to...

Wait, what?

How often do you find yourself stuck feeling scared, angry or sad? And then you tell someone, they hear it and acknowledge you. Suddenly you feel less alone, it feels less intense.

The brain is the same

Sometimes, the act of hearing it with kindness and curiosity but using wisdom to intentionally choose what is genuinely right for you... that can help give your brain some time off.

N.B. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it is not appropriate if your brain feels too critical or harmful. You know your relationship with your brain best. Try it gently or with less distressing experiences first.

For a downloadable version of this page, click here

This theory is taken from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. If you want to find out more, check out actmindfully.com.au

If you’re interested in exploring some of these ideas more, take a look at my available services or get in touch to see if we might make a good therapeutic fit.