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The Mind Train: Riding Above Anxiety’s Lies

Writer's picture: Troy Faddis, LMFTTroy Faddis, LMFT

Updated: Jul 31, 2024


Introduction: Anxiety is a powerful force that often keeps us stuck in our comfort zones, preventing us from taking risks and embracing change. It whispers lies, convincing us that the status quo is safer than venturing into the unknown. But what if we could rise above this mental train of anxiety? In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of the “Mind Train” – a mindfulness practice that allows us to gain perspective and challenge anxiety’s deceptive narratives


The Mind Train: Imagery Exercise Imagine your mind as a set of train tracks and anxiety as a speeding locomotive. Here’s how the Mind Train exercise works:

Boarding the Anxiety Train:

  • Picture yourself sitting inside the train. Anxiety’s voice is loud, urgent, and convincing.

  • It tells you that risks are dangerous, change is risky, and staying put is the only way to avoid disaster.

  • You feel trapped, unable to see beyond the train’s windows.

Climbing Above the Tracks:

  • Now visualize yourself rising above the train. You’re no longer inside it; you’re an observer.

  • From this vantage point, you can see the landscape – the vastness of possibilities, the beauty of uncertainty.

  • Anxiety’s lies become clearer: They’re just thoughts, not absolute truths.

Objective Observation:

  • As you float above the tracks, notice the feelings that arise.

  • Anxiety may still whisper, but you’re not captive to its narrative.

  • Observe the fear, doubt, and discomfort without judgment.

Challenging the Lies:

  • Ask yourself:

  • Is this fear based on evidence or assumption?

  • What if I took that risk? What’s the worst that could happen?

  • Can I trust my ability to handle uncertainty?

  • The answers may surprise you.

Returning to the Train:

  • Descend back into the train if you wish, but now with newfound awareness.

  • You can choose whether to believe anxiety’s lies or challenge them.

  • Remember that you have the power to step off the train anytime.

Conclusion: The Mind Train practice reminds us that anxiety’s grip is not unbreakable. By rising above the tracks, we gain perspective, resilience, and the courage to take risks. So next time anxiety chugs along, consider climbing above it – and see where the journey takes you.

Note: For a guided Mind Train practice, watch the accompanying video.



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