The biggest mistake we make when trying to get rid of old or bad memories is that we forcefully want to forget. Often the more we say, “I don't want to remember this,” the more the brain repeats the same event.
If we understand it from Osho's point of view, then the way Don't erase memories, separate your identity from them. Is.
1. If you remember, don't fight with it
When an old event comes to mind, don't try to stop it immediately. Take a moment to calm down and observe:
“This is a memory, not an event happening in the present.”
You are not reliving that event. Your mind is just bringing up its picture or story.
2. Stop making memories into stories
The event happened once, but the mind can repeat it again and again:
“Why did he do this to me?”
“Why did I do this?”
“I wish I had done it that day…”
This is where the pain increases.
When this process starts, ask yourself:
“Am I solving the problem or just repeating the same story?”
If the answer is that you are simply repeating, bring the attention back to the present.
3. Instead of suppressing the memory, become a witness.
Sit quietly for 10 minutes every day.
Close your eyes and let whatever comes to mind come to you. If any old memory comes to your mind, do not try to erase it.
Just look:
“I am missing you… I am feeling uneasy in my body… I am feeling sad in my mind…”
But don't say this:
“I am sorrow.”
Say instead:
“I feel sadness within me and I see it.”
This small difference is very important.
4. Learn to forgive yourself
Many old memories don't go away because we keep punishing ourselves.
Admit if you have made a mistake in the past:
“Yes, I made a mistake. But I am not the same person today.”
Learn from mistakes, but don't make them your identity.
5. Free yourself from the one who hurt you
Forgiveness does not mean that the other person did right.
Forgiveness means:
“I will not let this incident rule my current life forever.”
You can distance yourself from a person without forgiving him. But it is not necessary to carry its story within you every day.
6. Learn to come back to the present
When memory becomes too intense, concentrate on things around you.
Look at your room.
Feel the ground beneath your feet.
Breathe slowly.
Listen to the sounds around you.
Then say to yourself:
“That was then. I'm here now.”
This is a simple way of returning the mind from the past to the present.
always remember one thing
Your memories are not your entire life.
The past can't change, but your relationship with it can.
Don't set a goal from today that “I should never have had that memory.”
Instead, aim to:
“If I remember, I will not be afraid of it, I will not suppress it, and I will not get carried away by it.”
Gradually the emotional strength of the memory may diminish.
If a past memory is so intense that it continues to interfere with your sleep, everyday life, or relationships, it may also be helpful to talk to a mental health professional. This is not weakness, but taking care of your mind.