What is it?
Leaves on a Stream is a guided exercise that helps individuals observe their thoughts without getting caught up in them. Using a simple nature metaphor, it teaches how to create space between ourselves and our thinking.
 
It’s helpful for:
People who feel overwhelmed by racing, repetitive, or distressing thoughts. It’s particularly useful for managing anxiety, rumination, and emotional reactivity by building the skill of cognitive defusion.
 
How to use it:
When a thought arises, they write it on a leaf and imagine placing it in the stream, letting it float away. Encourage them to observe how it feels to watch the thought pass without engaging or resisting it. If the thought returns, they simply notice it again and repeat the process.