Managing Anxiety – Cognitive Shuffling

Can’t stop the anxious thoughts? Try Cognitive Shuffling. This is a mental technique that disrupts repetitive anxious thinking, especially when you’re trying to fall asleep. Here’s how it works:

1. Pick a random word (like “apple”) and think of unrelated words that start with each letter (A: ant, P: planet, P: pillow, etc.).
2. Keep thinking of unrelated words for each letter of the word.
3. As you focus on the random, neutral words, your brain becomes too occupied to hold onto anxious thoughts.

This playful exercise shifts your focus away from worry and helps lull your mind into a more relaxed state.

Anxiety is our specialty at Penney Murphy & Associates. 
Every member on our Counselling Team is highly trained
and experienced in anxiety work. 
We’ll help you to get results for managing your anxiety and finding calm.