Relaxation matters because it is a very simple way that we can care for ourselves – plus it get’s you really blissed out!
However, you may be one of those people who say that meditation doesn’t work for you – and actually, it can feel the complete opposite to relaxing, because for whatever reason your brain won’t shut up.
If you are one of those, then please read on, because you may be interested to find out that research actually backs up what you are saying – there are some people out there that simply detest meditating – for example, the anxious mind is primed to indulge intrusive thoughts, which in turn can lead to ruminating, which in turn can lead to a highly critical inner voice about yourself or others; making meditation more like punishment, rather than relaxation.
Although you may find yourself in this category, please do not worry, as there is a simple hack you can use to identify that voice, challenge it, and turn the volume down – and better still you can do it on your own.
What to do if you find yourself talking smack – about yourself!
Simply spend some time writing down your thoughts with no judgement – just let them go – spend at least 15-mins doing this – or more if you need to – once done, ask yourself a simple question – would you speak to someone else like that? Would you speak to a child or someone you loved very much like that? If the answer is no, then it is time to address it.
Recognising it is definitely the hardest part, but once you have, you need to challenge the ‘inner critic’ with what evidence it has for saying such cruel things – you can name it if it helps you to identify it or explain it to others. What does it sound like, is it a voice you recognise or is it your own? You can even go so far as to dress it – really build up a clear picture of this inner critic.
Going forward, when you recognise it, ask it for evidence of what it is saying about you, if it can’t provide any, then disregard what it has said – however, if it can provide some evidence, then address yourself with the same care and love you would a child, loved one, or even a pet if you prefer fur babies over humans – we are all works in progress after all.
Be kind to yourself
