"A recent study published in the journal, , discusses the relationship between mind wandering and mood, and suggests that it isn't mind wandering, itself, that is to blame for our unhappy states, but rather the emotional tone of our thoughts as they wander. Personally, I can certainly corroborate the effect of unhelpful self-talk and the less-than-awesome moods it can inspire. In developing the capacity to mindfully sit with my own thoughts, it didn't take long to notice just how many of them were judgmental, critical,"
"As best as I can, I bring them to the forefront of my mind-I try to picture them standing right next to me. It might be my wife, my child, a close friend, or even my dog. In my experience, I have found that it doesn't even need to be anyone alive; it only needs to be someone who-the moment I think of them-I want the best for them:"
Mind wandering does not inevitably cause unhappiness; the emotional quality of the thoughts during mind wandering primarily shapes mood. Unhelpful self-talk often presents as judgmental, critical, condescending, or pessimistic inner speech that worsens emotional states. Mindfulness practice trains a kinder relationship to such thoughts by promoting compassion and nonjudgmental awareness, though applying compassion can be difficult during hardship. A practical technique involves vividly imagining a beloved person experiencing the same difficulty, then directing the supportive, protective attitude toward oneself. This visualization shifts the inner voice toward safety, care, and wellbeing, reducing self-criticism.
Read at Psychology Today
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