The Benefits of Thinking Less

Most of assume that when we have a problem an apt solution would be to think more. In general, we think thinking more is a good thing. This is so ingrained in our culture that most people would not even question the benefits of thinking more.

Yet, as we think more and more and with greater speed and distraction we are missing out on the benefits of being.

Ideally, the brain would exist on an equal seesaw of thinking and being. But most of us live far from a 50/50 ratio of thinking and being. In reality, most people live in a 95/5 ratio, at best.

Yet, according to new findings in neuroscience, the mere act of "being" has the capacity to bring about astonishing advantages to our mental and emotional well-being in a world that places enormous importance on constant productivity and active thinking.

Rest for the Mind

Our brains are hardwired to process data, analyze situations, and make decisions. However, the never-ending cycle of overthinking can cause mental weariness and increased stress levels. We allow our brains to rest and regenerate by immersing ourselves in the present moment and accepting the experience without the weight of excessive contemplation. According to a 2010 study published in Psychological Science, moments of unfocused mental states stimulate the default mode network, which aids in brain relaxation and restoration.

Emotional Balance

Overthinking frequently increases stress and anxiety. Being present can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which produces calm and reduces stress responses. According to a study published in Mindfulness in 2018, people who practiced present-moment mindfulness had improved emotional control, which resulted in less symptoms of anxiety and despair.

Superior Cognitive Skills

Contrary to conventional belief, moments of calm awareness can really improve cognitive functioning. The "being" state permits the brain to consolidate information, synthesize experiences, and connect diverse neural pathways. A 2014 study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that intervals of non-thinking improved attention, memory, and cognitive agility.

Brain Health and Neuroplasticity

Fully embracing the present moment activates neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself through the formation of new neural connections. Regular "being" practice has been linked to changes in brain structure, such as increased gray matter density in areas connected to attention, emotional regulation, and empathy. A 2011 study published in Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging revealed that exercises that promote present-moment awareness resulted in tangible changes in brain structure and function, potentially providing long-term advantages for cognitive health.

Developing Inner Resilience

Participating in the state of "being" fosters the development of resilience - the ability to traverse obstacles with a balanced perspective. We gain the ability to observe thoughts and emotions without judgment by immersing ourselves in the present moment, lowering reactivity to stimuli. A study published in the journal Behavior Research and Therapy in 2020 found that practicing present-moment awareness increased resilience and relieved symptoms linked with stress-related diseases.

The How-To of Being

You may be thinking well this sounds good but how do I stop thinking so much? The first step is to realize you are thinking all of the time. Notice that you are spinning thought cycles in your mind. Once you are able to notice them start shifting your mind into perceiving what is around you. Ground yourself in the physical space you are in. A great time to practice this is on a walk. Practice taking in and perceiving your surroundings without using thought to analyze them. For many of us, just the knowledge that we are allowed to stop thinking for a bit can be the catalyst to change.

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