What To Do When Your Mind Won’t Stop Racing

It can be difficult to disentangle from thoughts when your mind is racing. In fact, it can feel like you’re aboard a thought-train that has no stops and the mind jumps from one thought to another. Likewise, it can be difficult to fall asleep, and overthinking can also result in inaction.

You may have even heard these statements:

‘Let go’
‘Focus on the present moment’
 ‘Don’t identify’

Truthfully, the first time I heard the above statements I did not truly understand what they meant. I understood them intellectually, but not from experience. Now I see the power of these phrases and understand that they are all pointing to the same thing. When we are too wrapped up in our thinking it can be hard to understand the truth in these words.

When you become aware that your mind is constantly racing, this is the first sign that you are waking up from the dream of thought.

Many people become aware of racing thoughts during sleepless nights or in meditation. Often, the more you try to silence your mind, the louder it becomes. It is like banging on a piano for peace and quiet, it only creates more noise.  Consequently, it is difficult to disentangle from thoughts and calm the mind because the desire to stop thinking can create more agitation.

We can create distance from our thoughts by learning to observe them.

Imagine looking at an abstract painting where there are no identifiable objects. Here you can take a step back and see it for what it is, without making any assessments. In fact, there is no need to interpret or analyze anything because our opinions are subjective.

In other words, you can observe the painting without judging or criticizing it. Likewise, you can create space between yourself and your thoughts when you observe your mind. In fact, becoming consciously aware of your mind by observing it is a powerful way to disentangle from thoughts.

Observation of our minds must be pure and untainted.

Observing does not mean labeling, interpreting, criticizing, or evaluating. None of these are required. For instance, say you observe two strangers arguing, you can notice what is happening without making any assessments about what you see. The moment you start interpreting the situation, then your observation is no longer pure because now you are participating mentally.

So, when you watch your mind, simply be aware of what you perceive without any involvement. For instance, your mind may say “I am observing my thoughts” or “I am aware I am constantly thinking”. If you have a thought, simply notice it without adding to it. This is what it means to be mindful.

Mental interpretations and assessments can go on for a long time because the mind does not know how to let go.

Mental chatter can run late into the night, and your mind may be fixated on multiple things. For instance, you may be worried about completing a task the next day and cannot stop thinking about it.

Logically, sleeping and waking up refreshed would help you accomplish your task. Instead of sleeping, however, many people struggle to let go of thinking. Consequently, their minds continue to race because every thought seems important and urgent.

Be aware of this tendency to pay attention to thoughts even when they are repetitive, unhelpful, and frivolous. Likewise, take a look at these 12 Thinking Traps, to help you build your awareness and disentangle from your thoughts.

By observing your thoughts, you will distance yourself from them. Bear in mind, you are not the thinker of your thoughts. Rather, you are the one that perceives thought.

There is no need to fight with your mind since this only adds more mental noise. Simply notice what is on your mind and allow it to be there. If you are not aware of any thinking, just bring your attention to your breathing. Next, notice the first thought that tries to pull your attention away from your breath. When a thought comes, just witness it without becoming involved in it.

Abiding as the witness of your experience is a powerful way to remain calm and find your center, even in difficult times.

When you notice your attention has been tangled up in thinking, do not judge this.

Simply bring your attention to your breathing. As you shift your attention to your breathing, your mind will learn to let go of the mental noise it holds. In addition, your attention will shift to the present moment. All you have to do is allow your thoughts to be there without identifying with them.

In the beginning, it may be difficult to keep your attention on your breath but do not give up.

Practicing breath meditation is a way to cultivate focus, calm your mind, and let go of thoughts.

The more you observe your thought train, the less likely you are to be swept away by it.

In fact, you will begin to see that most of the thoughts you have are automatic, repetitive, and unnecessary.

They are often about the past or the future and the mind often replays situations that are unpleasant. The important thing to recognize is that you are not the one thinking your thoughts. Thoughts are simply arising in your mind, and you are the one perceiving them.

Be diligent and don’t underestimate this practice. As you begin to observe your thoughts and emotions, you will be able to shift your attention and disentangle from thoughts.

Live in the present moment and know when to shift your attention away from your mind. Let go of thoughts about the past and future, and keep your attention in this moment.

Here you will find peace and joy. Be aware that in this moment, nothing is out of place. Let thoughts come, but don’t identify with your thoughts or emotions, they are all transient. You can witness all your thoughts coming and going, and this will free you. Always remember, “this too shall pass.”

Now that you’ve learned to observe your thoughts without identifying with them, read Falling in Love with Silence and Stillness next.

May you be happy and well,

With love,

Ravelle

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