You don’t even have to change your thoughts – I’m not saying that you should think something different if you’re really having trouble letting go of a belief.  That just creates more struggle.  So, to start lessening the stress caused by thoughts, the first step you need to take is simple.  Just notice.  Notice the thoughts as if you were a scientist, studying a newly discovered species of mushroom.  “Hmmm,” you might say to yourself…”interesting.”  But you probably wouldn’t be too emotionally jazzed about a mushroom.  (Well, unless you’re my college Biology 101 professor.  YAWN!)

So just notice.

What are you thinking right now?

Are you thinking anything that’s creating stress or tension in your body?

What else are you thinking?

Gosh, there’s a lot of thinking going on, isn’t there?!!

Yep.  That’s how the mind works!  It’s busy.  So, keep noticing.  Pause, and say, “Interesting!  New thoughts, old thoughts, parading through.”

Then, try this.  Say, “I notice I’m having the thought…my pain will never go away/my kids will drive me nuts this summer/I can’t possibly lose this weight…”

Do this for a few days and you’ll begin to notice something else.  Your thoughts will not create as much stress.  They’ll just be…interesting.

And your body?  What sweet relief!