Harnessing the Fragrant Shield

Intrusive thoughts can feel like sudden dark clouds invading the clear blue sky of our minds. These unwelcome cognitions appear unprompted, hijacking our attention against our will. While momentarily disturbing, most occasional intrusive thoughts are harmless manifestations of normal cognition. But for some, repetitive thought storms wreak greater havoc, trapping them in endless rumination. Obsessive thinking occupies mental real estate, draining focus and vitality. Escaping the loop of intrusions feels impossible. In this book, we dive into the psychological and neurological roots of intrusive thoughts. Using metaphors, real-life stories and scientific insights, we illuminate why our brains generate these disruptive cognitions. Key roles emerge for the amygdala, memory centers, prefrontal cortex and other regions. We introduce the concept of "triple vulnerability" - where genetics, past adversity and suppression habits converge to permit intrusive thinking. To overcome obsessive ruminations, we propose a technique based on the intriguing concept that searching for an olfactory image forces the brain to abandon intruding thoughts´ endless loop. We highlight the power of smell and memory to redirect the brain's focus.