Human brain is the most complex organ of our body. It is responsible for carrying almost all the functions of our body. However, Psycholgists and Neuro-scientists strongly believe that human mind can be trained to function in a more productive and progressive manner using various cognitive techniques including the proper usage of language.
Prominent linguistics and cognitive psychologists have remarkably identified that the words which we use for ourselves and others have a much deeper impact on the psyche of a person. Words act like the command which we intentionally or unintentionally use to communicate with our brain for further processing and actions. Each word carry in itself an image which can be visualised, an emotion which is activated and initiates an action as well ( e.g. Ice cream, college, home-each of these words have a beautiful image along with a connotation of emotions in itself and may also initiate an action ) hence by the judicious use of words one may reach out to the mind in a much simpler and organised manner. For an instance, listening to one’s own name activates several neural impulses which direct our attention and energy towards the speaker. POSITIVE SELF TALK is the most initial as well as crucial step for enhancing self-esteem and creating Self –efficacy. ‘I can Do it’, ‘I am Happy’, ‘I am Loved’ are just few of the magic words which we can say to ourselves. Thus, with the correct usage of words one may learn to channelize and organise the distracted thoughts and distressed emotions.
CREATIVE VISUALISATION is another effective method for organising our thoughts and emotions. This method interestingly uses the power of mental imageries and words to channelise and motivates ones thoughts and actions respectively. Most of the time we experience and identify that there is always a negative image (e.g. failure, guilt or of fear) because of which an individual gets de-motivated and experience anxiety. In order to modify such thoughts a simple technique of changing the ‘Image’ being visualised can be practiced. The moment an individual is made to imaging a Happy Picture the person starts experiencing it and enjoys living in it. It quickly takes the person in a much safer and positive environment with which anxiety and negative thought can also be controlled. Hence it is important to paint a colourful and bright picture of our present and future in order to control the negativity affecting our mind.
THOUGHT STOPPING- saying a loud NO to the negative and distracted thoughts. This technique is used when the individual is distracted with vague and un-productive thoughts which affect the person to carry out her/his daily regular functioning. The individual is trained to be aware of the thoughts she/he is experienced and say ‘NO’ in a loud voice. Thought stopping technique has been found very affective for individuals/patients experience depression, anxiety and various other clinical conditions.
COGNITIVE RESTRUCTURING or REFRAMING- this technique is very useful to identify the thought processes purposefully for identifying the negative thought. After identification of this negative thought the individual is required to REFRAME it using different set of words and emotions. So that they are more positive and productive. For example- “ I broke my watch because I cannot do anything else’ can become ‘ I am skilled and I want to accomplish my goals’ or ‘ I am sure I will work it out’. These simple reframing can induce an entirely a new perspective and vision.
Using GUIDED DISCOVERY to gain a new perspective is also an effective technique for mentoring the mind. In this method the individual is asked to question its beliefs and assumptions. The moment one starts questioning itself it leads to attaining greater insights about one’s intentions and priorities. Thus, enabling us to understand and respect other’s perspectives as well.
EXPOSURE is a very powerful tool to gain perspective and insight about the perceived realities. It is important to acknowledge the fact that individual differences do exist and so does variations in perspectives. Hence, in order to gain insight and understanding it is useful to have an exposure of information from authentic and reliable sources. In some cases one or limited sources may not be sufficient. Thus, acknowledging, appreciating and respecting the difference in thoughts as per exposure may be practised.
Our mind is a very powerful mechanism which governs each and every human action. It not only instructs the body but also affects the emotions accordingly. Remember the time when elders repeatedly prompted us to “Think Positive” or a Simple Good Luck wish use to work wonders during examinations. Think how a small negative comment made by a friend would deeply affect our mood and actions. The times when you listened to happy songs made you experience euphoria. These are all ways and techniques though which we can identify that Yes! We can Master Our Mind and subsequently our thoughts, feelings and actions.
Write-up By :
Dr Sonal Gupta
Counselling Psychologist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach & Career Mentor
