If you struggle with overthinking, this episode is for you.

Maybe your brain replays conversations on a loop.
Maybe you catastrophise about the future.
Maybe decision-making feels exhausting because you’ve already run 47 scenarios in your head.

Overthinking is incredibly common. Research suggests up to 80% of our thoughts are negative and 95% are repetitive. That means most of us are swimming in the same mental loops on repeat.

In this episode, I break down:

• What overthinking actually is (and how it’s different from healthy reflection)
• The two main types: rumination and worry
• Why overthinking feels productive but actually reduces control
• The cognitive distortions driving it, including catastrophising, mind-reading, black and white thinking, and perfectionism
• Why overthinking is often about avoiding an “unbearable” feeling
• The nervous system patterns behind it

And most importantly, I give you practical strategies you can use immediately:

• The powerful question: “What now?”
• How to give your brain a container
• Why getting back into your body is essential
• How to use cognitive defusion from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Making good enough decisions instead of perfect ones
• Treating life like an experiment
• Building tolerance for uncertainty
• Replacing self-criticism with compassionate self-talk

If you’re tired of living in your head, if your thoughts feel loud and relentless, or if overthinking is impacting your sleep, relationships, or confidence, this episode will give you tools to interrupt the cycle.

You are bigger than your thoughts.
They don’t get to run the show.

For more resources, visit charlottecummings.nz
Come and connect with me on Instagram @charlottethecounsellor

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