Mind-Wandering and Mindfulness
One must be able to differentiate between various types of mind-wandering. One can lead to negative rumination, where we simply fall into a pessimistic rut of thinking. The other form of mind-wandering is necessary for our brain to integrate information. While it can be subtle, it is an incredible difference. Unfortunately, our restless mind during this mind-wandering time is very rich and self-relevant, characterised by spontaneous thoughts and emotions, concerned with the past and hopes, fears and fantasies about the future. It often includes interpersonal feelings, unfulfilled goals, unresolved challenges, and intrusive memories. It is in this state of mind when our past conditioning and programming takes over. We are on automatic pilot.
