Emotional Inf lexibility 119
that nonreactivity explained why increased psychological
f lexibility was related to fewer anxiety symptoms. Increases
in psychological f lexibility led to increases in nonreactivity,
which, in turn, were related to decreases in anxiety. We
found a somewhat similar pattern of results in the second
model. It appears that nonjudgment explained the relation-
ship between psychological f lexibility and depression.
Specifically, increases in psychological f lexibility led to
increases in nonjudgment, which then led to decreases in
depressive symptoms. Therefore, we will now teach you
some additional mindfulness techniques that will bolster
the skills you have acquired thus far.
Outsmarting Anxiety Skill #4:
Flexibly respond to your emotions.Suggested Practices
Before you begin the following practices, remember that it’s
important to be consistent and patient. Practice daily, and
be forgiving with yourself if you make a mistake! These
techniques are meant to help you be mindful and f lexible
“on the go.”
Even though we already presented the basics of mindful-
ness, it’s important that you keep up your practice through-
out the day. As we have mentioned before, mindfulness is a
mind- set, and you need to “exercise” regularly throughout
the day to maintain this state of mental health. Although it
might be easy to practice meditation at scheduled times in
places that are free from distraction, how exactly are you
supposed to meditate while walking in the grocery store,