Rumination is when you have constant and repetitive thoughts about something. Typically it is about something unpleasant. These thoughts can circle and consume a person day after day. It is important to point out that repetitive thoughts are not necessarily bad or uncommon. A lot of us at some time or another suffer from repetitive thoughts, especially after something unpleasant occurs. Rumination becomes a problem when it begins to affect your everyday life.
If your rumination begins to affect your school, work, or relationships, it may be something to work on. Here are a few tips that may help you work through repetitive thoughts.
(Please keep in mind that rumination is not the same as “Rumination Disorder,” which is a separate disorder and is not discussed within this article).
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness helps us stay “in the moment” and focus on the present, helping to prevent us from fixating on past experiences. Practicing meditation can help you find your center and inner calm. Sometimes rumination can heighten a feeling of anxiety, and learning meditation can help you work through those feelings. Being mindful takes effort. We have to consciously decide to stay in the moment until it begins to happen naturally. Being mindful can also help in many different areas of life.
Distraction Techniques
Distraction can help to give temporary relief from obsessive thoughts. Things such as chores, activities, homework, or electronics may help you “hit the pause button” and take your mind off things for a little while. For some, learning to “hit the pause button” can help to step back and breathe. Those moments can help clear your mind and begin fresh.
Working with a mental health professional will help you better understand what techniques and skills are right for you. Understanding your specific situation is essential in learning how to work through your challenges.
Rumination is when thoughts continuously circulate within your mind. Many people suffer from repetitive thoughts, and it is normal and expected when going through a challenging experience. When these repetitive thoughts affect everyday life, they can become a problem that needs to be addressed. Everyone experiences things differently, and everyone will work through rumination differently. Here at The Guest House, we are ready to help you gain the tools and skills needed to work through any challenge you may be facing. Call us today to learn more about our different therapy options and how we can help you at (855) 483-7800.