A habit is an automatic behavior that we engage in without even thinking. The part of our brain where we store these habits is called the basal ganglia. We also store our instincts and our feelings in this part of the brain.
So what can help us override these old habits?
The truth is that there is not one perfect way to overcome bad habits. Since we are all different there are many different ways to help you retrain your brain and become in control of your habits.
Below is a list of different options for you to test out and see which ones work best for you.
Mindfulness:
Mindfulness is the process of purposely bringing one's attention to experiences occurring in the present moment without judgement. By paying attention to your feelings you can become aware of them and make a mindful decision to allow those feelings to pass.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is a short term therapy technique that can help people find new ways to behave by change their thought patterns. During Cognitive Behavioral Therapy you will learn how to restructure your thought as well as many other techniques.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis allows you to make suggestions directly to the subconscious mind in order to think and feel differently about the habit. Hypnosis can aide in reducing pain, helping with sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, weight management and quitting smoking.