Habits
We all do it
Over the last 15 years, research on effective habit-transformation methods has exploded. Through neurological brain mapping, scientists have discovered intricate and fascinating connections between our thoughts and our behaviors. We now understand quite a bit about how to truly “redirect” our thoughts!
By using a three-pronged approach of awareness, openness, and engagement, we can learn to engage and even embrace our difficult thoughts without becoming so uncomfortable that we need to mask or hide the pain. Through our therapy sessions, I will guide you in techniques that will meet these thoughts with compassion and curiosity. We will practice learning where they come from, what their purpose is, and how to glean their wisdom. To put it simply: the “need” for a coping mechanism will no longer exist.
At the same time, we will work on identifying what those coping mechanisms are that need to be broken down, dismantled, and done away with. You will learn to notice when a difficult thought or feeling is beginning to show up, and you will be able to calmly engage and process it in a way that actually helps you. I will help you develop strategies to then turn to your reflexive coping habit and consciously put it to the side.
You Don’t Need More Willpower
It’s not about willpower, it’s about integration.
How often have you, motivated and excited, launched yourself into a new program, diet, or exercise routine only to find yourself months, weeks, or even days later completely out of will power and giving in again? This is an extremely common cycle because it depends entirely on an unreliable source of energy!
Willpower comes and goes. Its presence depends on so many variable factors that are outside of our control: an angry text from a friend, a difficult work situation, a crying child in the middle of the night. Each one of these situations can bring our energy level from a “10” to a “0” instantly. Our motivation gets zapped, and we miss two or three workouts. Now we’re discouraged that we “failed” again, and a shame spiral begins. “Trying harder” just doesn’t work. Not in the long run.
Let’s try something that does work. By practicing mindfulness techniques and changing your relationship (with challenging thoughts) into a positive one, you will finally be equipped to turn away from an unhealthy response or habit. It is not about willpower, it is about knowledge and understanding why these thoughts exist in the first place. You will grow stronger from the wisdom gained by integrating them into your whole, authentic self. The pull to indulge in the habit just won’t be there anymore! In its place, you will have reestablished your self and your health.
Welcome to the real you—without the hiding, without the guilt, and without the shame.