OVERTHINKING STOPS NOW (Watch This Video)

Summary

This video explores how to overcome overthinking by embracing awareness and letting go of controlling thoughts. Through storytelling, meditation, and insights from spiritual masters like Buddha and Ramana Maharshi, it highlights the importance of observing the mind without resistance. The video emphasizes the idea that overthinking stems from the desire for control and suggests cultivating a state of present awareness, where thoughts are simply observed, not fought. Techniques like 'neti neti' (not this, not that) and mindful breathing are introduced as ways to connect with one's true self beyond thought.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Overthinking is a common problem, with studies suggesting we spend 58 out of every 60 minutes thinking about the past or future.
• 🧘‍♂️ Common methods to reduce overthinking include supplementation, meditation, journaling, and breathwork. However, these solutions might not be effective long-term without deeper awareness.
• 🐴 A story about a wild horse illustrates that fighting against the mind doesn’t work. Instead, let the mind run free until it naturally becomes calm and submissive.
• 🌊 Trying to control thoughts is like trying to flatten the ocean – resisting thoughts only creates more waves. Acceptance and observation are key.
• 👁 The mind is a great servant but a dangerous master. Most overthinking arises from being controlled by thoughts rather than observing them.
• 🔍 Awareness is the solution. Like a master observing a wild horse, becoming aware of thoughts without judgment allows for natural calmness.
• ⛓ We are not the thoughts we experience. Thoughts arise spontaneously, and we are the observers of these thoughts, not their creators.
• 🌕 The mind is like the moon; it only appears to have its own light. Consciousness, or awareness, is the true source of energy.
• 🧘‍♀️ The practice of ‘neti neti’ (not this, not this) helps identify who we are by understanding who we are not. This leads to a deeper state of awareness and silence.
• 🌺 Trust in the unfolding of life helps reduce overthinking. Acceptance and presence bring peace, as illustrated in the story of the king and the counselor.

Q & A

What is the main cause of overthinking, according to the video?

The main cause of overthinking is the mind's tendency to dwell on the past or worry about the future, as described by a study from Stanford. Overthinking is often the result of being controlled by the mind, rather than mastering it.

What analogy is used to explain how to deal with overthinking?

The video uses the analogy of a wild horse and a horse tamer. The horse tamer does not try to fight the horse but lets it run until it tires, making it easier to command. Similarly, the mind should not be forced into submission but observed patiently.

How does the video suggest quieting the overthinking mind?

The video suggests quieting the mind by practicing awareness rather than trying to force thoughts to stop. Present awareness, or being fully conscious of the present moment without resisting thoughts, is key to ending overthinking.

What role does breathing play in overthinking, according to the speaker?

The speaker mentions that overthinking is linked to under-breathing. Techniques like breath work, meditation, and mindfulness can help calm the mind and reduce overthinking by promoting deep breathing.

What is the significance of awareness in overcoming overthinking?

Awareness is presented as the solution to overthinking. By cultivating pure awareness, where one simply observes thoughts without attaching to them, the mind naturally quiets down. Awareness means recognizing that you are not your thoughts.

How does the story of the Buddha and the reporter illustrate the concept of awareness?

In the story, the Buddha denies being a god or saint and says 'I am awareness.' This response highlights that true wisdom comes from being aware of oneself and everything around without identifying with external labels or thoughts.

What is the 'neti neti' technique mentioned in the video, and how does it help?

'Neti neti' is a Sanskrit phrase meaning 'not this, not this.' The technique involves discarding anything you think you are (like thoughts, emotions, or body) to arrive at a place of pure awareness and silence, which is your true self.

What story illustrates the idea of acceptance and trust in the way things unfold?

The story of the king and his counselor illustrates this idea. The counselor tells the king that 'all is well and unfolding as it should,' even after the king’s near-death experience. In the end, the king realizes that everything, including his scar, worked out in his favor.

How can overthinking be linked to attachment, according to the video?

Overthinking is directly related to attachment to outcomes. The more attached a person is to achieving a particular result, the more intensely they will overthink. Letting go of this attachment allows for peace in the present moment.

What is the final practice recommended to stop overthinking and why is it effective?

The final practice involves observing your thoughts without feeding into or rejecting them, cultivating a state of pure observation. This practice is effective because it allows you to detach from thoughts and rest in the peaceful state of awareness.