Here is a strategy to try in order to cultivate a state of mindfulness. The next time you are troubled by bothersome thoughts, imagine that you are standing on a bridge and that your negative thoughts...

Here is a strategy to try in order to cultivate a state of mindfulness. The next time you are troubled by bothersome thoughts, imagine that you are standing on a bridge and that your negative thoughts and feelings are leaves floating down the stream below. Suspend judgment and become a detached observer. It might help to say to yourself, “I observe that I am feeling …” If you find yourself having negative thoughts about yourself, you might summarize them in one word, such as “stupid.” Repeat the word over and over as quickly as you can for about a minute. After about twenty seconds, the word will have been defused, losing its emotional force and credibility.