Detoxing Our Minds

Over the past decade, mental health awareness has increased due to rising incidents of school shootings, community violence, and youth suicides. Gun violence and related deaths are on the rise in the USA. It's crucial to ask for support or help and to detox our minds by caring for both mental and physical health. Stress, headaches, and anxiety from toxic environments can affect sleep and overall well-being. This is particularly relevant for all professionals who are constantly exposed to distressing news. Here are some ways to detox your mind and help your students do the same.

"How we think not only affects our own spirit, soul, and body but also people around us."

Caroline Leaf

Once our minds are 'tattooed with negative thinking our chances

for long-term success diminish.

John Maxwell

There is great news for you today. In the next few moments, I am sharing ways that neuroscientist have proven to be very effective to keep your mind healthy.

John Maxwell

"All the circuits of our brain are designed by God for healthy -not toxic -thinking."

Dr. Leaf Green

There are methods to assist our brains in detoxifying. One approach is to spend 7 to 10 minutes on routine reflections, involving deep breathing, writing gratitude statements, and transforming toxic thoughts into healthy ones. Neuroscientist Dr. Green Leaf discovered through her research and years of treating patients that asking yourself questions can help clear your mental clutter. There are three questions to write down each morning during your reflections. The first is, what should I let go of? The second is, what will I focus on? The third is, what am I grateful for? Dr. Leaf stated, "Try to find a deep sense of joy and hope amidst your difficulties, even when you don't feel it immediately—this can be transformative for your brain." A quote I remember when working on detoxing my mind is from Dr. Leaf, who said that when we listen to the Holy Spirit, our brains align with the spirit's rhythm, which is reflected in the brain as enhanced intellectual function.

Be honest with yourself, but remember that honesty doesn't mean being harsh. It's about recognizing any toxic thoughts you may have and writing them down to aid in remembering. Dr. Green suggests that visualizing a beautiful tree and a burning tree can assist in reshaping these thoughts in your mind. Visualization can make you more aware of your thoughts. Imagine yourself as a superhero who can incorporate writing these questions into your daily routine. If you feel unable to do this exercise, it indicates a need to restart and persevere, regardless of how busy you are. I began to visualize and affirm daily that I am a compassionate, loving, intelligent, and patient woman. Initially, I thought this exercise seemed arrogant, but I realized I was affirming the person God created me to be, to honor Him. Knowing and defining who you are or who you're becoming helps you live an authentic and happy life, guiding your daily actions and ensuring alignment between your words and deeds.

Restarting is a very good start.

There is a quote that encourages us to keep moving forward. Rephrasing it can help us avoid halting our progress.

Martin Luther King Jr. said, "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving." Sometimes, we may feel unable to continue these activities, and when that occurs, we need to restart. For instance, during reset times, we can write these questions and answers. You might consider incorporating these questions into your daily morning or night routine.

Mentoring

Mentoring helps accountability and success.

Mentoring others allows you to engage in the same mental detoxification exercise, which is crucial for accountability and consistency. Mentoring holds great value and is essential for our mental and social well-being. If you possess certain skills or have experienced a breakthrough, it's an ideal time to support a friend, co-worker, colleague, or anyone in need. Mentoring serves as a means to make a difference in someone's life or the world. It teaches us numerous lessons and, due to the need for accountability and daily action, is one of the most effective ways to progress toward your goals. My advice for students from middle to high school is to join a social group where they can both help and learn from each other. It's an excellent opportunity for each student to share and receive skills. Through mentoring, we can find a comfortable and safe space for growth.