
Something I’ve struggled with a lot is how my mind processes things, which often causes anxiety, overthinking, and rumination. Part of it is a coping mechanism from childhood, and part of it is that my natal Mercury is in Gemini. In astrology, Mercury rules our thought processes, brain function, and communication style. In Gemini, its home sign (ironically), it’s like my brain is always turned on, running a million miles a minute on a hamster wheel going nowhere.
As a result, I can spend a lot of time in my head trying to work out the “right” solution to a perceived or real problem. Or I worry about something I did, didn’t do, said, or didn’t say. I can easily see both sides of a situation but struggle to determine the most aligned choice for me. This process takes a lot of energy, is exhausting, and often leads me to make “wrong” decisions because I’m relying on my mind instead of my heart.
Over the years, this tendency has created its share of issues in my life, but I’ve also learned tools to manage it. I still struggle sometimes, so this post is as much a reminder to myself as it is a guide for you.
Here are the things that have been most helpful for me:
1. Breathwork
Alternate nostril breathing has been a game-changer. This simple technique balances both sides of the brain and calms the nervous system in just a few minutes. If you’d like to try it, here’s a link with instructions: Alternate Nostril Breathing: How & Why To Practice.
2. Talking to a Friend
Sometimes, I just need to process out loud. When I talk to a friend, I tell them upfront that I’m not looking for advice—I just need a sounding board to get everything out of my head. Often, hearing myself speak helps me find clarity and decide what’s right for me.
If you try this, be clear with your friend about what you need. For example: “Can you please just listen without offering feedback? I’m open to questions, but I’m not looking for advice right now.”
3. Writing It Out
I call this a “brain dump.” Writing everything out is like going number two for your brain—it clears out the garbage taking up space. Afterward, if it feels appropriate, I burn the paper to release the energy without overanalyzing it.
Julie Cameron’s The Artist’s Way recommends doing this every morning with “Morning Pages,” which also sparks creativity.
4. Getting Into My Body
Movement gets me out of my head and unstuck. Dancing, yoga, walking in the woods, masturbation, sex—whatever feels right in the moment—helps shift my energy.
I often combine movement with other techniques, like talking to a friend or journaling first, and then moving or being in my body afterward. Play around with it to see what works best for you.
5. EFT Tapping
When I’m overthinking, I’m usually suppressing emotions. Tapping (or EFT) helps me acknowledge those feelings and gain clarity on my next steps.
Here’s a quick video I found on YouTube: Nick Ortner’s Tapping Technique to Calm Anxiety & Stress in 3 Minutes.
6. Mantras or Affirmations
After a brain dump, I like to use mantras to shift my focus. For example, if I’m triggered around safety, I’ll say, “I am safe.” If I’m overthinking, I’ll use, “I am peace,” or “My mind is calm and clear.”
I repeat these mantras while walking or meditating to stay grounded and prevent my mind from spiraling.
7. Plant Medicine
A few years ago, I reluctantly began exploring plant medicine, starting with microdosing mushrooms for anxiety and brain rewiring. Eventually, I sat with deeper plant medicines.
There’s a lot of science behind this (do your research!), but I’ll just say that plant medicine has profoundly changed my life without the side effects of prescriptions.
8. Creative Expression
Engaging in creative activities—like art journaling—taps into the feeling (right) side of the brain instead of the thinking (left) side. Creativity helps me process thoughts or feelings I can’t put into words and transforms that energy into something beautiful.
9. Acceptance
Sometimes we don’t have the answer to a situation and we need time and space to allow it to unfold. Give yourself permission to not have all the answers. Additionally, emotionally detaching can be helpful. I like the way this guy explain it - https://youtu.be/A4BH2wlBpog?si=WYUn3aUYeJTTiIzV.
These tools have helped me navigate the hamster wheel of overthinking and rumination. They may help you too. If you have other techniques that work for you, I’d love to hear them!
Much love and light,
Robin
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