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Self-defeating thoughts,
negative self-talk, and irrational beliefs are the cause of much of the
stress in our lives. Most people are
not aware of their stress-producing thinking. Through a technique known
as cognitive restructuring, we can learn to recognize and
change unhealthy thoughts and attitudes so that we can reduce stress and the
physical symptoms related to it.
Unhealthy thinking often produces negative emotions, such as anxiety, fear,
sadness, frustration, anger, or guilt. These negative emotions can in
turn result in physical problems, such as headaches or fatigue, or behavior
problems, such as irritability with friends or addictions. With
cognitive restructuring, you first learn to identify your own cycle of
thoughts, emotions, physical symptoms, and behavior. Then you learn to
change your thinking, which can reduce stress, improve your relationships,
and benefit your health.
At the Center, psychologists
experienced in mind-body medicine are ready to help you learn and use
cognitive restructuring skills. You may choose either individual
training or a class setting.
In our workshops on specific illnesses, e.g. cardiovascular disease or
depression, we teach cognitive restructuring techniques tailored for
dealing with common thought patterns for the illness. Taking
a holistic approach, we combine cognitive restructuring with other techniques,
such as relaxation response therapy, healthy diet and exercise, breathing
exercises, meditation, visual imagery, and yoga.
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