In our journey to actualize New Year’s resolutions and overcome the hurdles of negative, unwanted thoughts, an intriguing study in Psychological Science proposes a novel approach. This study suggests that jotting down these thoughts and then discarding them could potentially lead to a profound mental release. Drawing inspiration from yogic philosophy, this article delves into the transformative power of relinquishing thoughts that no longer serve us, allowing us to align more deeply with our intentions and inner selves.
Background and Study Insights:
The study focused on Spanish high school students enrolled in an eating disorder prevention class. Researchers divided them into groups, instructing each to pen either positive or negative thoughts about their bodies over a brief three-minute span. The intriguing divergence occurred afterward: one group meticulously reviewed their writings, searching for errors, while the other group chose to embrace the art of letting go, consigning their thoughts to the oblivion of a trash can.
Outcome and Reflection:
For those who clung to their writings, the nature of their thoughts became a predictor of their body attitudes. Negative thoughts elicited more pessimistic body perceptions, while positive thoughts fostered a healthier body image. Surprisingly, among those who discarded their musings, the dichotomy between positive and negative thoughts no longer held sway over their body ratings.
Yoga Philosophy’s Insight:
Yoga philosophy elucidates this phenomenon through the concept of “vrttis,” likening them to ripples of mental chatter skimming the mind’s surface. Like froth on a limitless sea, vrttis obscure the profound essence of the self and its universality. Yoga’s pursuit is one of refining awareness and mollifying these waves, resulting in an embodied consciousness of the deeper self and nurturing a more harmonious, compassionate, and pure orientation toward both oneself and the external world.
An Inner Observance:
In the realm of yoga practice, even negative thoughts are observed with compassion and impartial awareness as they surface and subside. Paradoxically, embracing the inevitability of these adverse thoughts rather than repressing or evading them leads to an awakening to their universal nature. The practice illuminates the human experience and imperfection, gradually diminishing the grip of these thoughts as self-awareness deepens.
A Long-Term Process:
This process is inherently recursive and long-term. In the immediate, the study’s proposal of documenting intentions (positive thoughts) and relinquishing the undesired (negative thoughts) holds value. Kripalu Center echoes this principle, advocating the preservation of affirmative intentions and the ritualistic release of thoughts that hinder us. Whether offering them to a higher power or consigning them to the earth’s embrace, this practice extends beyond mere New Year’s resolutions, serving as a potent tool whenever we need to recenter our intentions and break free from self-imposed limitations.
Sharing Experiences:
Have you embarked on a journey of liberating yourself from negative thoughts or habits? How has this practice impacted your life? Your insights and experiences contribute to the profound tapestry of personal growth and transformation.