Instead of worrying endlessly about your upcoming tax audit or dwelling on that conversation you just had with your boss, do something repetitive, such as playing solitaire or washing dishes. Not only does the distraction get your brain out of an endless negativity loop but keeping part of your brain occupied with a repetitive action actually frees up the creative side of your brain to solve problems. This is why we often have great ideas when we are in the shower or not thinking about something in particular. In addition to the possibility of creativity, repetitive action is soothing and helps reduce stress levels.