Thoughts

Mindful Attention to Thoughts

Paying attention to mindful thoughts helps you recognize your mental patterns and stay present in the moment, as well as reduce your stress and reactivity. It allows you to approach your thoughts with curiosity and kindness rather than judgment, fostering greater emotional balance.

One way to do this is through decentering. Decentering helps you see thoughts as temporary events in the mind rather than absolute truths, creating distance between yourself and negative thinking. This shift allows for better emotional regulation and greater flexibility in how you respond to challenges. Learn more about decentering with the video below:

An Introduction to Mindful Decentering

Thought Surfing 

Thought surfing is a mindful practice that can help us observe thoughts and feelings without reacting. While thought surfing, you notice a thought as it comes up and increases in intensity (like a wave) before finally going back down. Play the video below to learn more about thought surfing and try it for yourself. 

An Introduction to Thought Surfing

More Mindfulness for Better Living 

For more mindfulness resources, you can check out the Mindfulness for Better Living MediaSpace, YouTube, or Spotify Podcast channels. You can also sign up for an upcoming mindfulness program by visiting our health programs or virtual calendar pages. 

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