My Brain's Not Broken

Earlier this week, I wrote a post about getting stuck in my head. Some days, I really wish I could get out of my head. I have so much going on in my brain, it can be exhausting trying to engage with it on a daily basis. This is easier said than done, of course, but I’d still like to have that option when possible. But even when we want to get out of our own heads, where do we start? What can we do? I did a little research, and I’d like to share what I learned.

There are so many ways to get out of our heads and stay in the present moment. Sometimes these things work brilliantly for us. Other times…not so much. But everyone is different and unique, and we won’t know what works for us without trying. Here are ten of the best ways I found in my research (and some I’ve even done before!) about getting out of your head:

Exercising. Whether it’s an intense physical workout or a brief walk outside, getting your body going is a good way to engage with other areas of health.

Meditation. Okay, it’s true: I’m on the meditation train now, so I might be a little biased when I talk about it. Regardless, making time to meditate has become one of the most consistent ways for me to slow down my brain.

Focused breathing. Yes, there’s a difference between focused breathing and meditation, and they both have their place on this list.

Journaling. Sometimes our thoughts need to get out of our head and put on paper (or laptop, your phone, whatever your heart desires). At the very least, it’s a creative outlet and way to organize your our thoughts.

Do something that slows you down. Can’t think of anything that slows you down? Look at some other items on this list! But truly, if there is an activity or something you’ve done before that requires focus or a deep breath, it’s something worth trying.

Do something you KNOW you enjoy. When I can’t get out of my head, one of the things that has helped me is my newfound love of jigsaw puzzles. I know that no matter how I’m feeling, puzzles have always brought me joy. Whatever it is for you, I encourage you to try it when you can’t get out of your head – even if you don’t ‘feel’ like it.

Focus on the present. Like other items on this list it’s much easier said than done, but there are many ways to be present that have worked for people. Personally, I like to look around and describe what’s around me.

Acknowledge your negative thoughts. It’s an unfortunate truth: we all have to deal with negative thoughts. Acknowledging these thoughts can shrink their power or at the very least, help you deal with/manage them.

Try to find an alternative way to view your thoughts. One reason I get stuck in my head is that I’m only viewing my problem in one way. Finding an alternative perspective can make these thoughts feel less intense.

Remember that it’s okay to be in your head – we all are sometimes. At the end of the day, we all get stuck in our heads sometimes. It can be discouraging to deal with but it’s worth remembering – we are not alone.

Now, over to you! Have you ever tried any of these things? What else do you turn to when you get stuck in your head? Let me know in the comments below!