Being somewhat of a techie person, I often explain the workings of the mind using the analogy of a computer. Thoughts run on both conscious and subconscious levels similar to computers running programs in foreground and background.

Even if you’re only using one program on your computer, other programs run in the background sucking up vital memory and resources. In much the same way, our inner thoughts drain our emotional resources.

What messages loop through your mind on a daily basis? Taking note of your inner thoughts may take a bit of detective work. Pay attention to your reactions to conversations, especially if they’re unsettling. You may find yourself reaching for an unhealthy snack or comfort food after talking to a parent or sibling about relationships, finances, or jobs. Even TV programs and movies can trigger negative thoughts. Tracking your reactions can provide valuable clues to what negative thoughts course through your subconscious.

Inner talk or chatter is a popular topic. I’ve recently read the book, Self-Talk, Soul-Talk by Jennifer Rothschild (http://amzn.to/9NPNnr). It’s amazing to read about the sphere of influence our negative thoughts have over us. Thoughts are powerful. Our bodies react to absolutely everything we think. For example, our circulatory system can increase our blood flow rate simply from thinking of a negative situation. We can live and re-live negative situations over and over.

Thankfully, the good news is that we can CHOOSE our thoughts.

Once we begin to pay attention, and become aware of negativity, we can make the decision to change the course of our thoughts. We can choose a healthier path of thinking and therefore, choose wellness instead of illness.

Just as it is with computers, finding out what’s running in the background can be painstaking work, but when cleared, the needed programs run unhindered.

Clearing methods such as MTT (Meridian Tapping Technique also sometimes referred to as EFT, Emotional Freedom Technique), meditation, and journaling can provide wonderful relief from emotional issues that clog your mental resources. Damaging negative thoughts are often present without conscious awareness. Do you get that? Your mind can go off in negative tangents without you even realizing it.

For now, concentrate on doing some mental excavation work. Become your own “thought archeologist.” Choosing your thoughts wisely leads to living a happier and healthier life!