Awareness Of Thoughts

Awareness of thoughts involves noticing them as they arise and pass, without becoming attached to them, or wrapped up in the content of the story. For this exercise, see if you can rest in the perspective of the observer, much like a passenger on a train platform, watching the thought train pull into the station, pause, and continue on its way, without climbing on board.

If you do get taken for a ride and become wrapped up or hooked on one train of thought, simply notice this, and with gentleness and care, guide your attention back to the platform. You can practice this for just a few moments at a time, or for longer periods of sitting, both of which can help you cultivate the capacity to let go of rumination, self-criticism, and habitual patterns of reactivity.

The more we practice this in moments of stability and rest, the more available this skill will be during times of crisis and upheaval. Remember that thoughts aren't facts and you get to choose where to place your attention.