Stressing and Obsessing?

Thursday October 9, 2008

Have you ever had a conversation with someone that went badly, and then spent a little too much time thinking about what you should have said, playing and replaying the episode in your mind, trying on different endings, and feeling your stress levels rise? Sometimes these feelings can come from defensiveness--part of you agrees with what they said, and your subconscious mind is doing battle with you using what may have been an innocent comment on their part. Sometimes these feelings are the result of a passive-aggressive--or overt--attack from another person, and you wish you'd better defended yourself. These days, such feelings could also arise from a political debate with a friend or co-worker that should have been left to the pundits. Whether you find yourself dealing with this pattern occasionally or quite often, your stress levels could probably benefit from a refresher course on rumination. It's a great way to keep stress levels down! Here are some tips on how to stop thinking about things that stress you.

Are You Prone To Rumination? Test Yourself and Find Out!
Do you have a tendency to keep stressing about events that are in the past? Do you let things roll off your back? Here's a quick self-assessment test that can measure your tendency toward rumination, and supply you with resources for change!

How Rumination Affects Your Life
What exactly is rumination, and how can it affect your life? Get the full 'scoop' on rumination and how it affects your body, your stress levels, and your life.

Tips for Letting Go of Stress and Anger
Sometimes stressful situations can seem to stick with us. Most of us find ourselves ruminating or holding onto negative feelings we have about stressors or conflicts in our lives at one time or another. Unfortunately, this tendency can prolong the stress that we experience. Here are some proven strategies for letting go of rumination, letting go of anger, and holding onto peace.

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