5 Quick Things You Can Do When Your Brain Is Running Wild.

Our brains want to keep us safe.  Centuries ago when humans were being chased by lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!), their brains were always on the lookout for danger.  They needed to be. Being eaten by a saber tooth tiger was something to be avoided at all costs.  As we have evolved, we are no longer running from ferocious mammals on a daily basis, but our brains haven't stopped trying to protect us.  Sometimes these thoughts are useful so we take the necessary actions. Other times, there is no real danger, but we assume the worst. 

When we think uncomfortable thoughts we create uncomfortable emotions.  When I find myself going to the worst case scenario, I thank my brain for trying to keep me safe and then I bring it back to the present. What is happening at this very minute.  A great way to do that is putting my five senses to work.  

Let's say I am driving in the snow and I think the thought, I am totally going to slide off the road and die.  Instead of imagining my funeral, I focus on my 5 senses.  

What do I see: the road in front of me, lights of the cars, the beautiful snow, 

What do I feel: the steering wheel in my hands, the seat on my back and legs, the warmth of the heater, my shoes on my feet

What do I smell: the minty smell of my gum, the new car smell

What do I hear: the windshield wipers, the purr of the cars engine, the podcast on my phone

What do I taste: my gum

When I give my brain a different task to focus on, it brings me back to the present.  At this moment everything is fine.  When my brain realizes all is well, I calm down and enjoy the ride with confidence instead of fear.