Posted by Joslynn on December 8, 2004, at 9:01:40
In reply to What works for ruminating thoughts?, posted by jerrympls on December 3, 2004, at 22:08:51
Jerry, yes that makes sense, I do that same thing at work sometimes, trying to interpret a certain comment or tone of voice. It doesn't keep me up nights, but I am on an SSRI & it does seem like I ruminate less than when I wasn't on it. I also obsess and ruminate about my personal life sometimes, should I date this guy, should I not, what did he mean when he said that, and so on.
What helps me is to say to myself "Let it go Joslynn." I have to say it out loud. I know this sounds simplistic. Or I stamp my foot on the floor or say stop or do the STOP sign imagery trick.
I am also Christian, so I also imagine physically giving the whole burden to Jesus as he is walking down the street and I say "here, take this, I can't carry it but you can." But I realize that would not work if you are of a different faith or atheist, but maybe you could imagine a different but similar image in your head. Something where you are physically putting the burden in someone else's hands.
I hope this doesn't sound trite, but it helps me.
Another trick is to use that rumination energy on something that is healthy to ruminate about: a creative endeavor, a difficult book, etc. Or do something physical, a chore or some sort of task that uses your hands. Once when I was obsessing about something, I really felt some relief when I sorted out all my hair accessories. Now of course you can't do that because you are a guy (not that there's anything wrong with a guy having hair accessories, if that's your thing, rock on, but you know what I mean).
Ruminating is an ongoing challenge for me too. I just think too much. This can be a gift and a curse.
poster:Joslynn
thread:424178
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041206/msgs/426104.html