Chances are, you’ve never heard of the term 'psychological flexibility.' Therapists define it as the ability to be present and open to your internal experience and engage in values-based behaviour rather than be controlled by thoughts or emotions. Take the example of someone with social anxiety, who may avoid social interactions to prevent feeling discomfort. While this allows the person to avoid feeling anxious, it also shrinks their social circle and increases isolation and anxiety in the long-run. The person’s psychological inflexibility, therefore, may cause them to become stuck and unhappy.

Research shows that people who are psychologically flexible have improved well-being and quality of life. So how do you cultivate it? This week, Dr. Jennifer Caspari shares five practical ways to boost your flexibility.

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