Decluttering Your Mind

By Brittney Hemmands
Blog Content Contributor

From time to time, we all find ourselves lost in our own thoughts. It may happen during work when we are supposed to be finishing an important task, right before we are trying to get our 8 hours of rest, and even in the middle of our class lectures. Fortunately, being mindful of our thoughts is beneficial to our mental health, but overthinking can do the complete opposite. In fact, it is possible to get so caught up in the chatter of our minds that it affects our ability to perform mundane tasks during the day. To help us reset, I have included five ways to declutter our thoughts that will also help improve our overall health.

Start Journaling

Journaling is a great way to get all your thoughts on paper and out of your head. It gives you time to reflect on the experiences you have had throughout the day or, if you choose to write in the morning, set intentions for the day you want to have. Aim for three pages a day and write what come to mind without filter. This will help clear your mind so you have a fresh start.

Meditate

Meditating is known to help us get in tune with our bodies and the Universe, but it is also an amazing outlet for decluttering. Take just 5 minutes out of your day and sit in solitude so you can focus in on your thoughts, paying attention to each negative and positive one that may pass. You can even get on Youtube and check out some helpful guided meditations that are perfect for beginners.

Burn Some Incense or Essential Oils

Resetting your mind can be a bit difficult when dealing with stress, so purchase some enchanting fragrances to release some anxiety and enhance your mood receptors. While some essential oils and diffusers can be a bit pricey, incense is a cheaper option that has similar benefits. Check them out at a specialized store or even your local Walmart.

Communicate with Someone

More often than not, what we need to get out our heads is someone to talk to. Communicating with a parent, a friend, and even a counselor can help you express yourself in ways that you could not do by yourself. Also, if you are a spiritual/religious person like me, talking to the Universe/God is a great way to clear your mind. Usually what we need in the moment is comfort that everything will work out, and praying gives us that reassurance. No matter who you communicate with, talking will lessen your overthinking.

Preoccupy Yourself with a Hobby

Although the other statements I have listed are effective ways to declutter, there are certain situations where you just cannot get your mind to be quiet. These situations can be handled by preoccupying yourself with a hobby. When we dive into doing something we love, it distracts us from stressors that we may think about when we are not being entertained. So pick up a book, paint like Picasso, or even build a robot. All of the above and more can raise your mood and lower the mind chatter.

Featured image by Brittney Hemmands.