Selfcare for the Soul

  “The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.” – John Milton We’ve all had moments where our minds play tricks on us. You send a message and don’t get a reply. Instantly, you think: “They must be upset with me.” Or maybe you make a small mistake at work and spiral into “I’m a total failure.” These thoughts may feel real , but they’re not always true . They are what psychologists call cognitive distortions —automatic, biased, and often unhelpful ways of thinking that can trap us in cycles of anxiety, depression, and stress. The good news? Once you recognize these patterns, you can challenge and reframe them , creating more balanced and healthier ways of thinking. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore: ✅ The definition of cognitive distortions ✅ 18 of the most common unhelpful thinking styles (with real-life case studies) ✅ Practical strategies & exercises to challenge them ✅ Why breaking free from distortions impr...

A. Introduction      Overthinking is like a mental treadmill—you keep running but go nowhere. You replay conversations, imagine worst-case scenarios, and analyze decisions until you’re paralyzed. It steals your peace, joy, and even your sleep.      The good news? Overthinking is a habit, and habits can be broken. With consistent practice, you can calm your racing thoughts and live more fully in the present. This guide will show you how. B. What Is Overthinking?      Overthinking is repetitive, unproductive thinking about the same topic. It usually falls into two categories: Ruminating about the past Worrying about the future It doesn’t lead to solutions—it leads to stress, anxiety, and decision paralysis. Why Do We Overthink? Understanding the root of overthinking helps you overcome it. Common causes include: Fear of judgment or failure Low self-confidence Perfectionism Unresolved trauma Information overload Lack of clear purpose or rout...