Podcast 239: How to get out of a toxic thinking spiral

***Pre-order my new book Cleaning up Your Mental Mess here & get access to exclusive pre-order bonuses like a workbook, bonus chapters and more: www.cleaningupyourmentalmess....
Sign up to join my free text program and receive mental health care tips. Just text DRLEAF to 1 [phone]
SHOW DESCRIPTION: As I discuss in this podcast the brain has a natural optimism bias-we are what I call “wired for love”. This means that when we are connected to others in deep and meaningful ways, and when we are satisfied with where we are in life and where we are going (even if we have ups and downs, which are normal!), we can function at a healthy level. The brain likes it when we are in a good place!
Read the show blog here: drleaf.com/blogs/news/can-you...
SPECIAL OFFERS FROM OUR SPONSORS:
-Blinkist (This is one of my favorite ways to pass the time while exercising and build my brain, which improves mental resilience!): To get your free week on Blinkist AND 25% off your subscription see: www.blinkist.com/nc/partners/...
=BiOptimizers (The best magnesium supplement for optimal mental and physical health!): Get up to 32% off and free shipping on select packages at BiOptimizers.com.
PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:
2:00 Our natural optimism bias & how we are wired for love
2:27 What is the mind, and how is it different to the brain?
3:26 How optimism helps us survive AND thrive
7:00 How negative thinking distorts the brain
12:00 How negative thinking can become a habit and impact your mental and physical health
16:50 How to get rid of a bad thinking habit
17:50 Why we need to embrace the negative
20:21 The best way to control your thinking and manage your mind
21:50 How to make negativity work for you and not against you
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
-Get my new brain detox app SWITCH on sale now! Get 50% off a 3 month subscription. Just visit:
-Visit my website at drleaf.com for more free resources
-Instagram: @drcarolineleaf: / drcarolineleaf
-Facebook: Dr. Caroline Leaf: / drleaf
-Twitter: @drcarolineleaf: / drcarolineleaf
-KZbin: / drcarolineleaf
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5 review on iTunes, Google Play, or wherever you are listening! And don't forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends and family! I love seeing your posts on social media!

[@Brian-rs4ug]

No doubt. You can train yourself to be optimistic. Three things that have helped me in this area. Meditating on the Promises Of God out loud over the last three years has transformed me in more ways than I can put into words. We also need to be very careful as to what we allow to enter our mind on a regular basis. Turn off your TV, social media and open your bible daily. And lastly our environment/the people we spend time with on a regular basis have a huge impact on our lives.

[@kingdomcitizen4788]

Oh yes that is so true amen!

[@jkpow93]

Yes, truly! Faith, hope and love! How else can we truly generate positive & non-circumstantial thoughts? Having been through abuse & traumatic experiences, it can be very hard because flight/ fight response is triggered and it surfaces at times. BUT in the last little while I have become more discerning about what you mentioned in your comment and with help, God is renewing my mind as I saturate myself with HIM. Must keep my mind stayed on Him AND trust Him- who He is, His promises and the hope that awaits!

[@Brian-rs4ug]

Jess Powell Yes. Jess undoubtedly it usually requires a long drawn out process, of changing the way we think. Although it is definitely possible if we are consistent and learn to grow in our relationship with God and renewing our minds as a lifestyle. Many Christians are looking for a Sunday Message or a seminar to instantly transform them. This will not happen. It’s all about how we CHOOSE to develop a lifestyle of growth. Stick with it and never give up. God desires to transform you one day at a time. 😁

[@jb562]

Amen to that!

[@jkpow93]

@@Brian-rs4ug I appreciated your reply and thank you for the encouragement. Needing a whole lot of strength to persevere! I find reading through the psalms therapeutic too- the rawness of emotion and outpouring of honesty. Yet the Lord wants us to seek him with all of our hearts, meets us in our weakness and walks with us, fully embracing all we are. There is none like Him and His unconditional love is what draws me in again and again, further into His Word. In exchange for difficult, debilitating feelings, His word can in time, dwell within us richly through His Spirit.

[@kingdomcitizen4788]

Renewing the mind is so powerful! ALL wisdom come from God!

[@caterina_music]

I have never seen such a great mental health doctor before. You are absolutely brilliant

[@nonameno2696]

I really needed this, and God has brought me through some stuff and now im ready to renew my mind

[@skinnyhndrx1848]

Shedding a tear to your comment on 4.14.21 two days before my 31st bday.

[@nonameno2696]

@@skinnyhndrx1848 happy early birthday 💙

[@michelle8662]

Twuotqieuto

[@DirtyTRoy-hg6re]

This is the answer I’ve been asking doctors who push pills instead of finding the cause and just treating the symptoms....I wish this was a mandatory class in middle school: What to do/handle emotions! I see people walking around like zombies 🧟‍♀️ lost 💊 How can we help teach this?? I would volunteer to be an a Instructor and teach High schools students 🤯 amazing 😘

[@wilmalay32]

Last Monday morning driving to work, all of a sudden I felt gloomy, as in "I'm gonna go to my work again feeling lazy, same old thing, bored, felt trapped, etc." all those negative feelings. Then I tried to dismiss it in my head, and it still didn't go away. Suddenly I realized, "Hey, I acknowledge this feelings, then told myself it's okay to feel this way, and I remember the verse in Psalms 118:24, "This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it." When I meditated on it my spirit rose up and shifted to excitement, looking forward to a great day again. Her lecture is absolutely truthful and powerful on a scientific basis. Thank you, Dr. Leaf, for sharing your God-given wisdom, you truly are a gift to us nowadays.

[@Lucero_Martinez]

This is the only video that has truly helped me control my thoughts and emotions . I've become so toxic and didn't know how to deal with my thoughts. I only tried to ignore my thoughts and think positive but I as soon as I think I feel good I get even worse because I have gotten triggered by something I never thought would happen. I'm gonna buy your book and educate myself on our mind

[@lrow5416]

I have a toxic neural network from being attacked regularly by insecure negative people, but overall I know I’m an optimistic being. This is so important to become conscious of the negative forces outside and how we let them in or not. Thank you for this!! I’m going to work on changing my mind.

[@rutbrea8796]

Besides your PhD's and schooling, you have a great gift my dear Dr. Leaf, and that is your intoxicating kindness and compassion. It shows on your smile, your voice, and facial expression. I love to do portraits and would love to do one of yours. You inspire me.

[@iluminia805]

I never believed in positive self talk or words of affirmations but your science behind it is helping me understand a little better

[@rosalbadelriogarcia9598]

The power of positive thinking. Dr Carolyn's science is do awesome!!!

[@jill8777]

This is a clearly explanation of the science behind my mental mess, pain, confusion and stuffing down not dealing with those things separating me from the love Christ had for me. I can’t wait to read you book, absorb it like a sponge and put the steps into practice. Thank you so much!

[@rhondamoses9084]

I have given this testimony to many people on small platforms, interacting with individuals in various markets places. I had a life threatening brain injury Caused by a cerebral hemorrhage accompany by several small stokes. Year 1987 ( age 29) I awoken from a 3 day coma. I went into intensive worship! These are the words I heard spoken "I Am the Lord thy God who heals you. Brain surgery's, after many tests, decided not to do the surgery. Fast forward to 2021 I realized that toxicities still was hindering my progress. Until now! Thanks Dr. Carolyn Leaf For exposing the root cause of of my life.

[@lisasunshine7654]

Just listening to her explain this is renewing my mind right now! I love my brain 🧠 ❤️

[@leefraser969]

Thank you for all the positive talk and may you have a super blessed Christmas and new year

[@eloisamerillana888]

i absolutely love all of this information, you are helping me change my thought process and i appreciate you for your help. please continue to share you knowledge so you can help others like myself.

[@chelle4733]

You are one sent by heaven, Dr. Leaf, just got your book, and it so precious, everyone is going to benefit from it for sure.

[@Sara-ru1mq]

Thank you for such a wonderful work- I’m looking forward to reading your book!

[@user-gi7wg6bn3b]

Brilliant! God Bless!!!!! i am so blessed to listen to your teaching dear Dr.Caroline!!!!

[@marianorberg3410]

Dear Dr. Leaf, I love your teachings, they give me lots of hope, I really like your mental exercises, thank you for what you do😊

[@gaynorbishop9749]

Dr Caroline Leaf, just so pleased I was introduced to your work sometime back. Love your presentations, watch many of them and bought your new book too. I learn so much and share with others. Thank you for all you are. ❤

[@INTJATarot]

Thank you, You give my being validation! nice to see your scientific approach to it. I found you through the interview you did with Lewis. Everything you said on there resonated with my beliefs and my healing journey! Many thanks.

[@lorisabrown1009]

You were definitely made for such a time as this, where mental havoc is breaking loose everywhere. THANK GOD FOR YOU CAROLINE LEAF ❤❤❤

[@tracykruzan5939]

I happened to run across a podcast in which you were featured. I have my grad degree in Com.D. and two other undergrad degrees. I've always had a huge interest in neuroscience especially as it pertains to speech and language disabilities. I hear much more in your messages that cover information I have surmised, but not been formally taught. I'm a subscriber! Thank you!

[@sol.leseyaneleseyane5008]

This is what I really need!!Thank you so much Dr Leaf.I am ordering this book now.

[@refiky.7985]

This is one of the most useful video i have ever watched. This should be taught at schools to those young brains for a better and problem-free future.

[@rhondapelletier2141]

You are AMAZING!!!! You give ppl HOPE❤️

[@shaktiveda7041]

"Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess" Yes, I ordered this one as well, I am intrigued by this one as well!

[@pinkdaisywigsboutique4717]

Thank you for this excellent teaching doctor leaf! I love the scripture that says.. take every thought into captivity and bring it into the obedience of the word of God!

[@liabeachy]

Ty for sharing this information. Been down many Pychologists but I’ve not heard tour take on it so it was good to hear .

[@ruthhill74]

This is AMAZING! I only recently discovered Dr. Caroline Leaf & I shared some of these principles in my Bible study tonight. Thank you!

[@magicnier211]

Tolstoy has this to say about prayer .. Prayer removes doubt

[@mymom9466]

This is so amazing and helpful. Love the two types of trees as an mental anchor. You have such a kind and positive voice which strengthens the healing effect you are teaching us. ❤Thank you

[@crystalshanta7960]

Thank you for your time~that you put into teaching us truth💖🙏🏽

[@ashablaine]

Thank you Dr. Leaf. I'm love this scientific approach! Thank you for giving us for to be in control of our emotions, mind, and body!!!

[@matthewking8944]

thumbs up i agree with you.

[@matthewking8944]

yeah she is awesome a big thumbs up xoxo m.k

[@abigailmbalo9984]

Thank you so much for this practical information 🙏🏽❤️ it all just makes sense

[@DianeVirginie]

I feel so grateful you came into my life ♥️♥️♥️

[@petemarx1129]

You are brilliant.Just ordered a book, thank you.

[@rfiafia]

This is one of the best of your podcasts I've listened to in a long time. I prefer your lectures over a guest interview.

[@TonyaA7]

Yes these are more educational and easier to understand. She explains things more in these

[@janedough2492]

I was over listening to negative you tube videos. I’ve stopped. I’m also using your app. And I was ruminating doing all the bad stuff in my brain. Now I’m using your app and it really helped. Thank you

[@Lmr9341]

Hi from Germany 🇩🇪☺️ just preordered your book and I can’t wait to read it! Thank your for you excellent job! Greetings 😊👍🏻

[@donnacopeland1328]

Thank you. Watching and listening from Ireland☘🙋 ❤

[@nightnol]

I'm very happy to have been led here.

[@mahshidr9914]

Thank you dear Dr. Leaf

[@sophiaduarte745]

Amen. Many years ago I watched you videos, they changed me to be grateful. I truly am a more Happier person. Thank You JESUS. ♥️🙌🙏

[@lennyfitzgerald4190]

Love you Dr. Leaf, your an excellent asset in God's kingdom, beyond what words I could say here! So grateful for your anointing, thank you, bless you!

[@teresamann6977]

We are made to love. Children naturally love and accepts everyone. It is when a child has a traumatization of a abandonment or abuse that instills fear in the child. When that happens it causes a chemical reaction in the body. Thank you for your work I have learned so much.

[@shaktiveda7041]

Hi Dr. Caroline! I am reading your book "Think & Eat Yourself Smart" very clever concepts. Things I knew though very well put together.

[@zalinabrooks1198]

Ohhhh Thank You! God Bless You 💜🙏🏼💜

[@libbyszoeyadventuresbaker5643]

❤

[@robbieschubert7024]

I have ordered the book waiting for arrival. I am so excited to read your book!

[@mel-wu6qq]

Thanks so much for this wisdom! God bless you x

[@mildredpierce4506]

I've never heard of Rick Renner until a couple of weeks ago and on one of his videos, he was speaking with Caroline Leaf whom I had also never heard of. Wow! for both Caroline and Rick.

[@theohuioiesin6519]

This stuff works! Loved the book❤️

[@MH-gn8sc]

Currently reading Switch on Your Brain and really enjoying it. I'm so intent on bettering my mental health, I believe this a good first step for me and I have faith that it will help. It's incredibly difficult, but I'm also very cognizant of the little improvements I'm making. Praying my way through it as well. God knows therapy and pills have done absolutely nothing at all to help.

[@Sistergirl787]

GOD bless you with the transformation you seek, dear Mosa! Please ensure that you are prayerful and reading your Bible throughout the entire process. They are imperative for success. The workbook for SoYB is an excellent tool to use alongside your reading. This new book is an excellent sequel on Switch On Your Brain (SoYB) and provides additional supportive information and expounds on some of the concepts.

[@MH-gn8sc]

@@Sistergirl787 Thank you Nydia. I'll definitely get the workbook, I'd never heard of it till now. Will be sure to continue reading the Bible as well ❤️

[@rcz2023]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@omaroba1490]

Thank you ❤🎉🎉🎉😊😊soo much this video relaxed me.

[@mattrankin2587]

Really good and interesting content Dr Leaf - you're fantastic :)

[@vdang2491]

I love her book! I recommend for everyone! Specifically young people !

[@lisanicholls2706]

I will buy your book from the Koorong Book Store in Brisbane Australia. Thank you great video, practical advice, The Truth Does Set You Free.

[@kimyattasatchel213]

This is absolutely amazing 👏

[@rachael8796]

You are brilliant, thank you.

[@erikaserafinarivera1391]

And the truth shall set you free! 👏🏼

[@dialearningacademy36]

Excellent explanation of what I know but scientifically! I have your book about how you eat so I’m getting the others. I was always amazed by you from the first time I saw you in TBN speaking about your eating 🍽 book 📖

[@bruceb.klassen9552]

Love. You. A friend turned me onto your book. Cannot wait to read more. *****

[@christineandcarlmilitz2883]

Merry Christmas ❤

[@misskoool]

Wow, it sounds kind of complicated. I need to get my mind around how this works. I've struggled with negative thinking - always wanting to fix what feels wrong in my life or how I feel. Yet I feel I actually want to be positive. I trust God. I must find the answer to stop these thinking cycles!

[@nolwaziscreationz2603]

So love is the answer to alot of oproblems... Wow 😳🤯

[@monstarmashups4429]

Love conquers all! ❤️

[@juliacross2713]

Thank you ❤️

[@matthewking8944]

great job dr leaf

[@36gustavo]

Thank you for the insight 🙏

[@vijayavani8003]

She is really valuable for mankind.

[@stevenscott5836]

Ur the best Doc!!!💞

[@simsammalinao1823]

The brain is like the computer hardware; the mind is the composite of programs and apps that we use to manage our activities.

[@angelafraleyccdi]

Optimism bias! Love it! ❤️

[@kelvinfreeman7267]

Hi Mistress...... I was commenting on this page, when I came across yours and all what you just said in your comment is great and amazing. Mistress I will like us to be friends, This is my Gmail [e-mail] you can text me sorry for comment on Public stuff. please the gmail is only for Mistress lol 😆 kindly text me on this gmail if that is okay with you? I hope to hear from you soon.....God bless you.🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺

[@Lesley.h]

I’m constantly under stresses and know that lately the negativity is not leaving me. I’ve got frown lines that don’t go away now and it reminds me of my father who was always angry. I don’t want to feel like this. I’m hoping to find some peace until I am able to leave this awful environment that I am now also contributing to

[@sereneflatun]

Thank you

[@abbassiah]

You are really Helpful .I love your chanel. Thank you

[@lisanicholls2706]

I know in the past you have said 3 weeks without food, 3 days without water etc..... Thank you again for your great Channel and books.

[@skrywar7598]

I thank God for your existence.

[@SharpCats371]

Good Advent🕯🕯🕯🐾🐾😻Merry Christmas🕯🕯🎄

[@CathySharp]

I need this book! WOW

[@allpointstoone4346]

4:36 wow that makes a lot of sense, i thought i'm so negative. I see things that need to be corrected or bad situations that that could become good situations. I like to see bad circumstances change to good, for the good of all. It's caused me a lot of stress and the body also becomes sick. I want to learn more to free myself from the stress. A psychologist told me the mind is negatively biased for survival, looking out for what can be harmful.

[@kevinmesch6607]

Carolina 🌿 Leaf is a Hero in what shei is teaching; or if preferred Heroine- I definitely plan to get her latest 📚 book

[@Sourmoons]

This is the best !

[@lyn-ed5hg]

No woman can get rid of toxic thinking when my person has been physically offended!!

[@frannie7583]

Thank you God bless u 😀

[@kimyattasatchel213]

THE LORD is soooooo awesome! The way HE wired our brains and mind🙌

[@mitzibarton4699]

love it.

[@tomjones6296]

A great book seller....

[@user-ej5jc5dk1e]

Beautiful .

[@denisescott6250]

Thank you for all you do💕 Merry Christmas🎄

[@krishaclose1054]

Awesome 👌 It works 👍 😎 😀 👌 👏 🙌 👍

[@pd8176]

Wired for Love❤

[@krishaclose1054]

The Power you have inside of You...

[@jessicaautio4828]

I would like to have this "Cleaning up your mental mess" as a Finnish translation 🙏I already have your previous books. Thank God for your wisdom, your videos have been a huge blessing to me while I'm recovering traumatic events.

[@JnTmarie]

Finland the happiest place to live. I was dreaming of being there ! Keep believing in yourself. You create your life! I’m sure it can be wonderful 💜

[@siemelonoranksenamun]

You radiate.

[@allpointstoone4346]

10:38 I've been mostly stuck in negativity for 30 years...how to change that?...still learning. I bought your book today, it's on order and I'm waiting.

[@hbinfinity]

I'd love to know more about reconceptualizing. I watched this vid a couple times so I could actually participate. I actually wrote down my negative thought and then what's at the root of it. But then this video didn't really go into how to turn it around. Now I'm just sitting here looking at this paper with this really painful stuff on this paper and I felt a stabbing pain without an idea how to go about the next step of reconceptualizing. I can totally accept that things will be more painful before they get better when you're trying to intentionally heal. But that implies that you're going to take a healing step in this video kind of left me hanging in a painful spot. Sorry if that's critical, I'm generally a huge fan of your work and I'm thinking about buying the book. (Pandemic took my job so we're struggling. Don't have $ for books yet.) Anyway, I would really appreciate a video or commentary about the other side of this process.

[@Jesus_Resurrection_and_Life]

💛🤍🧡 Thankyou🧠. Peaceful Christmas 🌸

[@ColinByrne-aiazmir]

I'm a big fan Caroline.

[@Leah-pe1hj]

Brilliant

[@janedough2492]

I love your voice