In a previous post I talked about how the brain deals with change and the ability for the brain to be adaptable and learn new things. But how exactly do we train our brains to be more adaptable and flexible?
When we build mental flexibility it allows us to adapt to changes more easily and improves our problem solving skills. Because the brain is programmed for routined and automatic processes, it can be easy for us to get stuck in one way of thinking or being. When we find ourselves stuck we may be experiencing what's called cognitive rigidity. Just like with any skill, having stronger mental flexibility has to be practiced. Here are four things you can do to practice strengthening your mental flexibility.
1. Name and notice what's happening for you.
Check in with yourself and name what you're experiencing that may be causing you to feel stuck. For example, maybe you can't stop thinking about something your coworker said to you and it make's you feel frustrated. You notice that you feel so stressed about it and you start to get a headache. The first step in being able to change/shift our energy is acknowledging and naming how we feel.
2. Orient yourself to your environment.
Take a look around and notice what colors or textures you see or sounds you hear in your environment. When you orient yourself to your surroundings you are redirecting you mental attention to something else. That in itself is creating more flexibility in the mind, and it's also allowing you to release your attachment to whatever it is causing you to feel stuck.
3. Move your body
Another's good way to shift our mindset is to get moving. Go for a walk, take a workout class, or turn on some music have a quick dance session. When you engage in movement you're able to break up stress and tension in your body, and you start to feel less restricted. Your nervous system is calmer and it sends messages to your mind that its okay to relax and release the thought, feeling, or action you're hyperfocused on.
4. Notice what else is present
We have multiple feelings and thoughts at any given moment, and there may be a number of different solutions to a problem we have. When we're in a state of cognitive rigidity we may not be paying attention to what else is present. See if you can create some space between you and what's causing you to feel stuck, in order to get curious and see what else may be present for you. You may find that there's a more soothing or supportive thought or action that you weren't paying attention to at first.
Hoping these tips were helpful. Let me know in the comments what you think about mental flexibility and if you use any of these techniques.
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About the Author
Chelsey is a relational therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. She works with adult, couples, and families to help them release stress, tension, and trauma to better connect to themselves and the world around them. She offers group, individual, and couples therapy and offers a sliding scale rate to increase accessibility to services. She also facilitates holistic wellness offerings such as sound bath and yoga sessions, and social gatherings to be in community and have space to engage in conversations about mental health and wellness. If you're ready to go deeper in your health and wellness journey you can explore working with Chelsey by booking a free therapy consultation HERE.
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