Journaling about the thoughts (journaling can be a powerful tool if used correctly, but if you’re journaling about the thoughts themselves, or any sneaky subsets of the primary thoughts, you will remain trapped in the thought.)
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America says that “a brisk walk or other simple activity can deliver several hours of relief, similar to taking an aspirin for a headache.”
When you know yourself and know where you thrive, you can stop trying to squeeze yourself into the culturally prescribed model for “cool” and “fun.” Clients will often share with me that when they stop drinking and partying on the weekends, their friends or roommates will poke fun at them for being boring. “So what?” they respond. “I’m not bored with my life. I’m happy, and I’m living without anxiety.”
In fact, it’s the recognition itself that strengthens this muscle, for just as kids need their caregivers and mentors to witness and acknowledge their intrinsic gifts and strengths, so our inner characters need to be acknowledged.
Every time you engage in inner work of any kind, you strengthen your inner parent. Every time you exercise even when you don’t feel like it or move toward your partner despite the fear-walls that try to keep you separate, the inner parent grows stronger.