What technique may be used to dispel distracting thoughts during Shemoneh Esrei, and what is the halakhic concern with certain methods?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that when a distracting thought arises during prayer, one should be silent until it passes. The Magen Avraham and Mishnah Berurah note a kabbalistic remedy from Sefer HaGan (saying 'pi pi pi' and spitting), but both rule it constitutes an interruption and its efficacy is uncertain, so it should not be used mid-prayer. The Aruch HaShulchan records a different segulah (passing the right hand over the forehead while reciting a verse) and states it may be used during prayer silently.
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