Episode
Why You're Addicted to Thinking (And What to Do Instead) | Alex Olshonksy
- Published
- Jun 16, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3535
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Summary
In this episode, Alex Olshonsky explores why you’re addicted to thinking, nd what to do instead. Drawing from his journey through addiction, recovery, meditation, and somatic psychology, Alex argues that overthinking is often a way of avoiding difficult emotions. He explains why compulsive thought can function like an addiction, how attention gets hijacked by rumination and distraction, and what it takes to reconnect with the present moment. Along the way, Eric and Alex discuss recovery, spiritual practice, the role of the body in healing, and practical ways to find more freedom from the endless loop of thoughts. Feeling overwhelmed in your life? Check out Overwhelm is Optional — a 4-week email course that helps you feel calmer and more grounded without needing to do less. In under 10 minutes a day, you’ll learn simple mindset shifts (called “Still Points”) you can use right inside the life you already have. Sign up here for only $29! Key Takeaways: Personal journey through addiction and recovery Concept of addiction beyond substances, including compulsive thinking The metaphor of the “two wolves” and its relevance to personal and professional life The role of attentional agency in cultivating presence and awareness Healing practices including meditation, somatic psychology, and entheogens The impact of modern life on mental health and compulsive thinking Differentiating between useful thinking and compulsive rumination The importance of somatic awareness in managing thoughts and emotions Recommendations for simple somatic practices to reduce overthinking The relationship between action and thought in creating lasting change For full show notes: click here! If you enjoyed this conversation with Alex Olshonsky, check o…