Inner Work With MaryAnn Walker: Life Coach for Empaths, Highly Sensitive People & People Pleasers

138: How to Stop Ruminating: Breaking Free from the Overthinking Cycle


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Do you ever find yourself stuck in a cycle of overthinking, rehashing past conversations, or regretting decisions? You’re not alone. While rumination is common, it can lead to feelings of guilt and shame—especially when you feel you should know better. In this episode, we’ll explore the purpose rumination serves, what it might reveal about your values, and five actionable strategies to help you break free and move forward with greater clarity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

  • The underlying reasons behind rumination and how it serves a purpose.
  • How rumination often highlights misalignment with your values.
  • Five practical strategies to stop overthinking, including:
    • The power of “AND” statements for balanced thinking.
    • A simple trick to interrupt rumination instantly.
    • How revisiting your value system can guide your next steps.
    • Techniques to scramble unhelpful neural pathways.
    • Intentional journaling to process emotions and find clarity.
  • Why guilt and shame about rumination can keep you stuck—and how to release them.

Challenge for the Week
This week, when you notice yourself ruminating, try one of the strategies shared in this episode. Whether it’s using an “AND” statement, practicing the “delete, delete, delete” method, or intentional journaling, take a moment to pause and choose a more supportive path. Reflect on what your rumination is teaching you about your values and make one conscious decision to act in alignment with them.

Work With Me
If overthinking and self-doubt have been holding you back, let’s work together to create lasting change. My six-week coaching packages are designed to help empaths and highly sensitive people like you break free from unhealthy patterns and live a more balanced, authentic life. Spots are limited, so reach out today to get started!

Don’t Forget to Subscribe
Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast so you can stay inspired and empowered on your journey. If you’re already subscribed, be sure to leave a review—it helps others find the show and join our amazing community of empaths and HSPs.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

  • Episode 136: The Power of AND: Transforming Negativity Into Gratitude Through Radical Acceptance
  • Episode 137: Will They Ever Change? How to Know if You Should Stay or Go
  • Follow me on Instagram or Facebook for daily tips and encouragement.

Thank you for subscribing! 


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Inner Work With MaryAnn Walker: Life Coach for Empaths, Highly Sensitive People & People PleasersBy MaryAnn Walker

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